A new facility in Hawkhurst for older people in the Weald.

 

An exciting new facility, predominantly but not exclusively for older people, will be opened in Hawkhurst in the New Year by the Weald Rural Activities Partnership, (WRAP). This is a partnership of four charities including the Hawkhurst Community Hospital League of Friends (HCHLoF, WRVS, Alzheimer’s Society and Sound Architect.

 

“WRAP is an exciting development and a real example of David Cameron’s Big Society in action” said HCHLoF Chairman Peter Hoole. “We are delighted to be able to act as the initial funder of the project, utilising the expertise of the three other charities. It is also a clear demonstration of how vibrant Hawkhurst is and willing to get up, attract national charities and with them provide quality services for itself and its neighbours.”

 

“We have one aim - to provide a permanent base from which we can jointly offer quality programmes of activities and training, mainly for older people in the Hawkhurst Hospital’s original catchment area. We have taken a long lease on a large area of ground floor accommodation at Grove Mills and have started work to ensure that it meets all our needs. The new, spacious, centre will support a wide range of activities –from exercise and computer classes through to photography, art, reminiscence etc. The potential of direct computer links to other agencies and advice centres is also under discussion.”

 

Heather James of WRVS said: “This is a service which will be run by local people for local people, with the support of professionals. “We will need many volunteers to help us achieve this - such as more drivers and assistance in supporting activities.

 

“The service will start early in the New Year and we would love to hear now from anyone interested in helping.”

 

Rachel Lewis of Sound Architect who will provide the activities commented “The atmosphere, culture and activities we propose will be different from usual. Too often elderly people receive a Cinderella service, WRAP will enable and empower older people to improve their health, happiness and general wellbeing- while having fun, learning and socialising with others. We are really excited about establishing something in Hawkhurst which is unique.”

 

Tina Stirling from The Alzheimer’s Society said “At the moment we run a limited service from Cranbrook while from WRAP we will offer a service two days a week. This will not only help those with Dementia but also provide respite and support for their carers”.

 

Peter Hoole also thanked Jo Clark-Wilson, Managing Partner of Head First (Assessment, Rehabilitation and Case Management) LLP, owner of Grove Mills, for the support, assistance and generous terms upon which, at such short notice, she had agreed to lease part of the building.

 

Jo said: “I am delighted for my company to be associated with WRAP, there is enormous synergy with what we do and we are keen to offer our expertise and support to the partnership”

 

In concluding Peter Hoole said “Once again a big thank you to our supporters. We welcome donations from any of you who feel that they can contribute either with time or money. If, as in national media discussions, you don’t feel that you need your £200 heating allowance for instance, why not contribute it to this project? Drop a cheque into the Green Shop made out to Hawkhurst Community Hospital League of Friends, write WRAP on the back. Of course we will also take cash!”

 

Do it tomorrow.

 

Further details can be found in The Green Shop in the Colonnade, or contact:-

 

Bruce Cova 01580 754457