I paid a visit today to Guildford Police Station to thank the officer on duty, followed by a trip to The Salvation Army HQ in Ashford, where volunteers cooked a delicious Christmas meal with food provided by Surplus to Supper. It was a great opportunity to meet local residents who were provided with food and a Xmas present, after which we all sat down and watched the Kings Christmas message! I hope everyone has had a good Christmas Day – Seasons Greetings to all.
The High Sheriff – Shahid Azeem DL, joined Lord Kamall of Edmonton, (The Shadow Minister of Health and Social Care, House of Lords, and Trustee of Intergenerational England), on a visit to Guildford’s United Reformed Church, where they took part in an event to bridge generational divides through innovative activities.
The program was organised by ‘The Guildford Hub’ and ‘Intergenerational Music Making’ (IMM) who are a pioneering national charitable organisation to being people of all ages together through music and creativity, addressing loneliness and isolation while enhancing physical, emotional, and mental well-being.
The “Intergenerational Guildford Hub,” a collaborative programme between Intergenerational Music Making (IMM) www.imm-music.com and the Guildford United Reformed Church, brings people of all ages together through music and creativity. The hub is an initiative created and facilitated by IMM, a pioneering national charity, focuses on reducing loneliness and isolation while enhancing physical, emotional, and mental well-being.
With over a decade of experience, IMM has impacted the lives of more than 78,000 participants across the UK. Its work has earned recognition at the highest level, including the Prime Minister’s Community Champion Award. IMM’s vision is to foster a society where meaningful intergenerational connections are fundamental to thriving, inclusive communities.
The Guildford Hub: Connecting Communities Through Music, was established in 2019, and has been at the heart of IMM’s efforts to bring people of all ages together through music. Initially hosted at The Electric Theatre, the hub has since found its home at Guildford United Reformed Church, where it continues to grow as a vital space for community connection. Each session is a dynamic celebration of intergenerational collaboration, with participants ranging from individuals living with dementia, those experiencing social isolation and loneliness, and members of the local church community, to children from early-years nurseries, local school groups, and organisations like HALOW.
These vibrant gatherings create a safe and joyful space for shared storytelling, singing, improvisation, and creative exploration. By fostering connections across generations, the Guildford Hub strengthens mental health, builds community, and highlights the power of collective creative expression to transform lives.
Charlotte Miller, Director of IMM, reflected on the impact of the Guildford Hub:
“The Guildford Hub is a shining example of what happens when we prioritise connection and creativity in our communities. Week after week, we see lives transformed, loneliness eased, confidence built, and friendships formed—all through the power of music. It’s a reminder of how vital these spaces are in building healthier, more connected communities.”
Celebrating Leadership and Intergenerational Connection. The Guildford Hub embodies the ethos of IMM and Intergenerational England www.intergenerationalengland.org, a national organisation co-founded by Charlotte Miller and Emily Abbott champions an “Intergenerational Approach” that leverages connections between generations to address societal challenges, from loneliness and economic disparity to age segregation. As a proud partner of IE, the Guildford Hub showcases the practical ways intergenerational initiatives can transform communities, reduce health inequalities, and promote creative health.
Lord Syed Kamall shared his thoughts on the session:
“It was truly inspiring to see how the Guildford Hub brings generations together through music and connectivity in such a meaningful and impactful way. This is intergenerational work at its best building bridges, breaking down barriers, and creating a sense of belonging for everyone involved. My thanks to IMM and its incredible team for leading this transformative work.”
The High Sheriff – Shahid Azeem DL. Joined Lord Kamall in his praise of the event and added that he had thoroughly enjoyed attending:
“There were some lovely moments as the energy and enthusiasm of the young children in the room lit up the faces of the many older retired people, themselves clapping and singing along as were several participants who had other challenges – a great example of organisations, including a local school and members of the church, all working together to make a warm happy and very inclusive occasion”.
And finally, a mention of the Christmas Tree Festival that also took place at the United Reformed Church – A concept first held in 2015, to provide an opportunity to bring together the 35 community groups which meet regularly in the church building ranging from the Little GURKINS Toddler Group to the Sunflower Café Dementia Support Group, through yoga, Pilates and several choirs, to a dozen 12-Steps “Anonymous” groups catering for addictions including alcohol, narcotics, and gambling. Our guiding principle here is to extend a warm and unconditional welcome to all in a progressive safe environment. This includes hosting Guildford Muslim Society’s thriving Friday Prayers. Many of these groups have contributed the trees, with cleverly themed decorations. The result was a very Christmassy indoor forest which attracted visitors and raised funds for two charities that the church support, Street Angels and Cherry Trees.
It is incredible what can be achieved when the community comes together in such a positive and creative way.
Photos by Andy Newbold
The High Sheriff had the pleasure of presenting the British Certificate to all of the individuals who have become British Citizens. In his speech to them he said; “It is my privilege today to welcome you as new citizens to the county of Surrey. You are no longer a visitor; you are citizens of the United Kingdom and we welcome you to this country which is now truly your home. The community is of great importance to us in Surrey. This is the ‘Life Hub’ of the county, whether it be in a busy town or a rural village. A close community offers support and encouragement to others and values each and every person. You may already be involved in schools, community groups and places of worship – we would encourage you as a new citizen to continue to engage with your community. Embracing and sharing the values and beliefs of each other’s cultures, allows us all to become a more tolerant and welcoming society.Voluntary organisations play an important and integral part, helping to make our communities thrive in a safe environment. Please get involved and support these organisations, businesses and enterprises to continue to make Surrey a successful, vibrant and safe place to live. We welcome you to our county with open arms, as we drive forwards to meet the challenges of the future. We value your ongoing contribution to the ‘Surrey Family’ and we appreciate and celebrate your contribution to the county’s success.”
Shahid Azeem, High Sheriff of Surrey made a special Christmas visit to the Artventure Studio in Merrow last week. He met participants, staff, volunteers and trustees of the charity, that celebrates 40 years in the services of our community this year.
Artventure provides creative art sessions for learning disabled adults. They offer their services in their own purpose-built studio in the grounds of St Peter’s School, Merrow and they have just started to operate their second studio at Gosden House School in Bramley. 55 clients from all over Surrey visit their sessions weekly, where a team of practicing artists, artworkers and volunteers guide them to explore the visual arts and socialise in a safe and fun environment. The most important thing at Artventure is the creative process but they also like to show the produced artwork to the wider community at local exhibitions.
The High Sheriff has also chosen a Christmas Card designed by Helena Palma-Clarke, one of the artists at Artventure to be his official ecard this year!
Helena is a young artist devoted to nature. Her favourite mediums are watercolour, acrylics and oil pastel. She is also a keen and talented photographer, and her embroidery is remarkable as well. She attends sessions at Artventure Trust to practise her art and to be part of the Artventure community.
The High Sheriff was pleased to meet Helena in person and Helena was happy to tell him about which medium she liked best and what topics were her favourites. She also talked about what it meant for her to attend Artventure sessions.
“The best thing about Artventure was that it was like a big family, and once you became member of the Artventure family you would be part of it forever.” said Helena.
The High Sheriff met other clients and volunteers and even joined in creating a piece of his own.
“Seeing the phenomenal work that this fantastic organisation does is inspiring! They have clients from all over the county and help them with drawing and painting, I am blown away at the standard of the fabulous artwork I have seen here today. It really is a very special place and a place where people feel safe with the opportunity to get to know other creative minded people.”
The High Sheriff also chose the occasion to record a special seasonal video message (Above), wishing the people of Surrey a very happy Christmas and New Year.
Photos/Video by Andy Newbold
I had the honour of welcoming HRH The Duchess of Edinburgh to Camberley this week as she visited Disability Initiative – a charity she has been Patron of since 2003 and is a regular visitor. During her visit to the resource centre, she learned about the Charity’s ADEPT Project which was made possible through the support of the National Lottery Community Fund. The Duchess then joined in making festive Mince Pies, singing Carols and took part in a Christmas scene painting activity and a quiz!
Whilst there I also took part in the activities, though I fear my attempts at cooking and painting were not quite to the high standard attained by Her Royal Highness who does have a lot more experience in these matters.
Established in 1975 the charity strives to empower adults with disabilities towards their personal goals, through specialised tailored services, delivering high-quality care and slow stream rehabilitation while respecting personal choice, dignity, and freedom. Find out more about Disability Initiative at www.disabilityinitiative.org.uk.
Photos by David Hartley
#disabilityinitiative #disability #camberley #highsheriffofsurrey, #royalfamily #TNLCommunityFund
The Pavillion at Guildford Cricket Club was the venue for the ‘Dinner for the Judiciary’ hosted by the current High Sheriff – Shahid Azeem DL – an annual event to celebrate and thank those people in the County for their dedication and service whilst supporting the Judiciary system. Also in attendance were HM Lord-Lieutenant of Surrey, Michael More-Molyneux and his wife Sarah and The Leader of Surrey County Council – Tim Oliver OBE.
The excellent meal was prepared and served by ‘Surplus to Supper’ and for every person dining, three additional meals per person will be provided for people in need in the community – Mr Azeem thanked Claire Hopkins and her remarkable team for making this possible. Claire spoke to the guests about the charity and how it bridges the gap between food waste and food poverty. In September they converted three tonnes of surplus food PER DAY into thousands of meals that are channelled through 150 local charities. Find out more at www.surplustosupper.org
The High sheriff talked about his engagements so far and particularly praised Surrey Police having seen for himself the challenges they face “Their professionalism, resilience and compassion were nothing short of inspiring” he said.
His journey also took him to the courts where he visited the JPS Magistrate and observed a case, “These visits have given me a deeper understanding of the critical work done in the justice system every day. I also had the chance to visit HMP High Down where I initially planned to spend just a few hours but ended up staying the entire day, captivated by the work and dedication of the staff particularly moved by an inspiring Imam who delivers sermons to over 200 Muslim prisoners, his dedication to fostering hope and guidance was remarkable”
HHJ Patricia Lees – Resident Judge of Guildford, paid tribute to the High Sheriff with a speech about his achievements and contribution so far in his role and the evening was wrapped up by Michael Kelly JP who made good use of the occasion to launch an exciting new initiative – ‘The Magistrates Employers Forum’.
Magistrates are a critical cornerstone of the British Justice system. There are 160 or so Magistrates sitting on the Surrey bench and they are a cadre of volunteers sitting across criminal, youth and family jurisdictions, 64% of which are Women, which is higher than the national average. In England and Wales each year magistrates administer justice in over 90% of criminal cases, and the majority of civil cases. In this country we truly are globally unique in our reliance on volunteer judicial office holders to administer our criminal and civil justice. In the last 14 years national Magistrate numbers have halved – that is an unsustainable trend in our country. One of the challenges for the Surrey Magistracy is that two thirds of our bench are in employment. This brings challenges for individual Magistrates, their employers, and the courts. Individual Magistrates must balance their Judicial and their work duties. Employers must accommodate their employee Magistrates whilst successfully running their own organisations and of course the Court service must be cognisant of the demands and challenges on Magistrates time, both at home, at work and in the courtroom.
“Frankly to remove barriers to employees becoming and staying Magistrates is also to set the conditions for greater diversity in the Magistracy. Socio economic, age and ethnic diversity, can all be unlocked by breaking down these barriers. Which is why tonight so I’m proud to share with you the establishment of ‘The Magistrates Employers Forum’, an organisation born here in Surrey under the leadership of The High Sheriff to help break down barriers to employees becoming and remaining magistrates.”
The Magistrates were then invited to support and promote the initiative as it is established, an initiative that will no doubt also highlight the valuable relationship fostered between the Judiciary, The High Sheriff and Surrey Lieutenancy.
“Surrey is reliant on volunteer Magistrates – most of whom work. Society and justice benefits from a diverse magistracy. The Magistrates employer’s forum is today born in Surrey! This organisation would not exist without the vision, work and Patronage of our High Sheriff, of our Lord-Lieutenant – Michael More-Molyneux, and the Chair of Surrey Magistrates – Dee Wilkinson – on behalf of Surrey Magistracy and all of us – Thank You.” – Michael Kelly JP.
#surreymagistrates #surreypolice #thesurreylieutenancy #surreycountycouncil #surplustosupper
The High Sheriff – Shahid Azeem DL recently attended the Surrey Fire and Rescue Service Annual Awards and Commendations Event, held at G Live in Guildford. The prestigious occasion was an opportunity to recognise colleagues for their achievements as follows;
As well as presenting some of the awards, Shahid made the following speech;
“Thank you to Surrey Fire and Rescue Service for the kind invitation to join you for this special evening. In August I visited the open day at Surrey Fire Rescue in Reigate and followed up in September when I had the pleasure of visiting Guildford Fire Station and was warmly welcomed by Woking’s Blue Watch crew, who were covering for Guildford due to an ongoing incident. That visit offered me an invaluable glimpse into the daily realities and challenges faced by firefighters. It was a reminder of the dedication, skill, and resilience required in your line of work and to see the fire equipment Tonight, I am further inspired by the remarkable commitment demonstrated by so many across the service. From frontline firefighters and various teams and specialists that keep Surrey safe to volunteers who sacrifice their own time to contribute to the services work. You play a vital role! Well, done to all receiving awards tonight, whether for long service or for a specific contribution in your role. Your efforts make an immeasurable difference to the communities you serve. I’d also like to take this opportunity to thank the loved ones here tonight. You, too, are a vital part of this community, and we are all incredibly proud of the strength and encouragement you provide. Thank you once again for your extraordinary service. I hope you enjoy the rest of the evening and take this opportunity to reflect on and celebrate your achievements.”
Chief Fire Officer Dan Quin said: “This event is a highlight in our yearly calendar, where we come together to recognise and celebrate the outstanding contributions and dedication of our colleagues and community members to keep the people of Surrey safe. “Congratulations to all our award recipients, and thank you to the friends, family, and loved ones who have supported them.”
The High Sheriff – Shahid Azeem DL, paid a visit to His Majesty’s Prison High Down where he observed the operations and met with inmates. allowing him a rare and meaningful insight into what he described as ‘a respectful, balanced atmosphere that has been cultivated.’
“The mutual respect and cooperation between the staff and inmates is remarkable,” he said, “I was particularly impressed by how attentively staff listened to the inmates’ concerns, taking time to address them personally, and by their genuine knowledge of each inmate’s background. This approach not only fosters trust but also contributes significantly to a cohesive, well-run environment that supports personal growth and rehabilitation.”
HMP High Down is a men’s category C prison and young offender institution (YOI) located near Banstead in Surrey. The facility holds 1203 prisoners and notably opened the renown “Clink” restaurant in 2009 which was a ground breaking development in prisoner training opportunities.
Shahid continues, “It was a privilege to meet the prison Imam, and join the 200 Muslim inmates for Friday prayer in the Multi-Faith Centre and the sermon delivered was an inspirational reminder of individual responsibility, respect for others, and the pursuit of being a better human being – his delivery fostered a sense of community and encouraged personal reflection – qualities that clearly resonate well with the inmates.”
The High Sheriff pledged to contribute further by encouraging local volunteers to assist the prison with vocation training programs in plumbing, hairdressing, decoration, and brickwork. He added, “It is wonderful to know that organisations like ‘Elite Project Services’ ( read more at – https://inews.co.uk/news/uk/dwp-mentoring-scheme-ex-offenders-prison-leavers-944679), provide opportunities for inmates to work on real projects upon completion of training, and I look forward to facilitating additional support. Visiting High Down Prison was an eye-opening experience, and I am pleased to see such a compassionate and effective approach to corrections that defies many of the usual perceptions.”
The High Sheriff of Surrey – Shahid Azeem DL joined the procession and laid a wreath at the Armistice Remembrance Ceremony in Epsom. (11th November 2024.) Photos courtesy of Epsom & Ewell Borough Council (Oliver Clark).
He also visited The Muslim Peace Garden at Horsell Common near Woking, to lay a wreath and remember those who lost their lives during conflict.
#Epsom #Remembrance #epsomandewell #muslimpeacegardens #horsellmuslimpeacegarden #horsell #muslimburialgroundhorsell #woking #armisticeday #highsheriffofsurrey
The High Sheriff took a trip down memory lane recently when he revisited his old school – Kings College (then Park Barn School), Guildford.
Shahid Azeem DL, went to the school during the 1970’s and described it as ‘Grounding’.
Speaking to children in the school’s library and in very much different times, he gave them a brief history of his own journey which led to heading many organizations in the Technology world and being a very successful business person –he currently heads up a UK/Europe IT Business with over 1,000 employees.
Shahid shared with the students his love for sport which began at the school and his goal of becoming a professional footballer was cut short due to injury, but his love for the game led to him chairing Aldershot Football Club.
After a Q & A session during which Mr Azeem offered useful advice on succeeding in business, Headteacher Alastair McKenzie provided Shahid with a tour of the school whereby he pointed out many changes since his days there and shared stories about how it used to be.
He said “When I was here all those years ago it was a challenging school and I was an obvious target being the only person of colour – however I learned to fit in and it was grounding. My time there stood me in good stead for the future and probably helped me to keep my feet firmly on the ground. Looking around now the school is almost unrecognisable and it has a very high standard. All credit to Alistair and his staff for providing a great and safe place to learn”
In a news article from ‘Surrey Live’ this summer. – Journalist Emily Dalton wrote, ‘A Surrey school has been praised by Ofsted – noting that even students ‘love how strict it is. Kings College in Guildford has been given a ‘Good’ rating by Ofsted inspectors, after it was was visited between June 5-6, with the results published July 8. Inspectors found students are proud of their school, with one student even saying “It’s strict, but a good strict, because the teachers really care.” The sponsor-led academy, which has 544 pupils, continues to be ‘Good’ from its 2018 inspection.’
In the main corridor there is an evident sense of pride with a prominent display of alumni. Mr Azeem who as High Sheriff of the County was approved by both Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II and HM The King after his first term was restricted due to the Covid19 Pandemic, is a fine example of such an Alumnus. He said “It was a pleasure to return to Kings College and I am proud to have been a student there”
Photography by Andy Newbold.