The Surrey Fire Service have a Youth Engagement Scheme which runs 5 day programmes with practical firefighter activities. It is aimed at those young people who show risk factors such as low school attendance and at risk of offending. All a real contribution to my theme of supporting organisations which work to reduce school exclusions. I look forward to attending a session in November.
Had the privilege of spending some time 1:1 with Russell Pearson the Chief Fire Officer of the Surrey Fire and Rescue Service. He has been in post since 2007 and has a record of innovation. In a previous role he introduced an award winning mobile data system now in use nationally in every fire engine. He showers you will impressive and valuable analytical statistics which demonstrate his continual innovation and commercial approach to running the Service. But plenty of challenges ahead with more budget cuts to come.
Attended the Lightbox Woking opening of their New Beginnings art exhibition and awards
of work by women who have been impacted by the Criminal Justice System. We were entertained by a brilliant short one woman play (Peer Productions) of “What Women Face” which was very realistic. All organised by The Women’s Support Centre in Surrey. Do go and visit the exhibition. newbeginnings@womeninprison.org.uk
Visited Downview a woman’s prison in north Surrey with Peter Wintgens my HS Chaplain. We were very warmly welcomed by the staff and also met many prisoners. We were highly impressed by the attitude of both staff and prisoners, who seem to have an very
positive relationship with each other. The workshops where the woman are learning life skills are so impressive – cooking (including our lunch burgers) photography, dress making etc. The High Sheriff and his Chaplain say well done to the committed staff of Downview.
Great Curry lunch at the Royal Alexandra & Albert School in aid of ABF the Soldiers’ Charity. A wonderful location in the glorious Capability Brown gardens of Gatton Park (all funded by mustard- the Coleman family). Also a really worthwhile charity offering a lifetime of support to soldiers’ families in need. Well done Peter Bruinvels!
Cobham Heritage day: a great community ocassion with a hundred plus volunteers arranging interesting stands, good eats and old cars and music and attracting thousands of visitors. I did, not stay for the duck race (although did of course sponsor a number of ducks) when 8,000 ducks are tossed into the River Mole. I am waiting to hear whether mine won! A wonderful atmosphere with net proceeds for the Cobham Conservation and Heritage Trust, again all run by volunteers. The Committee for the Day was prior High Sheriff, Elizabeth Kennedy. Well done her and all her volunteers. www.cobhamheritage.org.uk
Surrey Clubs for Young People celebrated their 70th anniversary with a reception in the House of Commons last evening. A great way to mark their incredible support for over 100 youth clubs, largely within Surrey. Thriving youth clubs provide young people with a place for fun activities but also a secure environment by establishing boundaries for individuals’ personal development. 70 years is an impressive record of supporting thousands of young people, many from the more challenged communities in Surrey. Well done to the Chairman Tony Willis and the CEO Joyce Quinell. www.scyp.co.uk
Visited withTransform Housing and Support a number of their housing projects which care for individuals overcoming alcohol and drug dependancy. I was privileged to talk to a number of the residents (see photo) and heard the stories of their journeys into addiction and the wonderful help they are receiving from Transform in these “dry” houses on their journey to independent living. Well done to Paul Mitchell the CE of Transform and his dedicated staff who really are transforming lives. www.transformhousing.org.uk
Visited the GASP Motor project workshop near Albury where six young people were learning from scratch basic motor mechanics (take a vehicle to bits!) and practical engineering. The students are in the 14 to 19 age group and typically have found it difficult to thrive in mainstream education. GASP runs daytime, after school and evening sesions with qualified engineers as the tutors. Over 200 young people a year benefit from these programmes with very high retention rates and most achieving an AQA accreditation. As well as gaining practical skills they gain life skills of concentration, team working, improved self esteem and self confidence. GASP is making a real difference to the lives of these
young people. Congratulations to Sally Varah (Chairman), Henry Curwen (CE) and the staff and volunteers. www.gaspmotorproject.org
Spelthorne Gymnastics is a Jewel of Surrey. I visited this recently built new gym (£3million cost) with 40 staff which is host to over 1,000 young people a week from age 5 upwards. The gym is a UK (and further afield) centre of excellence in acrobatic and tumbling acrobatics. Extraordinary to watch as in the photo. They produce medal winners from age 10 . In many categories they are the most successful gym in UK competitions. 22 young people will shortly be going to Poland for a European competition. Probably (in my view) more important than medals is the discipline and personal confidence the training at the gym is instilling in these young individuals. This is especially relevant to the attendees at the gym who come form Priority Places like Stanwell. The gym is on the doorstep of this challenged community. All credit to Bob and Alison Cooper the inspiration and creator of this amazing place. www.spelthornegymnastics.com