Notes from a High Sheriff –
So – as the year progresses, I now have a greater understanding of how difficult life can be for a Local Authority to juggle all the demands of their citizens between their own staff numbers and their budgetary allowance. Not always easy.
Similarly, our Police Force, who cover a plethora of services beyond stopping and solving crime. It has become clear to me that being a police officer at any level is a multi-stranded affair. We have a great force here in the county – thank you to them.
This week I’d also like to share with you some (and I can assure you these are just a few) of the organisations that have taken my attention …
· @theHUB in Ross-on-Wye is becoming stronger and more effective… run by Milly and Annie – who both have bags of energy and some knowledge of lived experience too. Never turning away from those who have encountered tough times – Milly and Annie ( take a bow, ladies!) never judge, and always reach out with kindness to all in need.
· @theHUB at St. Peter’s Church at Peterchurch gives us a great example of how the secular world can merge with the faith perfectly using our local church buildings – with clear benefits to the church, visitor and our important historic heritage. St Peter’s offers great community-based fun activities to all ages – churchgoer or not – and fantastic homecooked food. Friends busy? Maybe go alone and join a join a table in their Chatty Café?
· The West Mercia Women’s Rape and Sexual Abuse Support Centre – WRACS. Jocelyn Anderson, who runs this centre, shared startling facts with me regarding the waiting numbers of victims needing support. Signposted to by almost all agencies, this essential service tries to manage the calls for help coming from women and men in this county, offering much needed counselling after sexual traumas. Underfunded. Over-subscribed. Sadly vital.
· Close House ( back of St Peter’s Church) run by Ben Lea. Offering a safe place for young people who find themselves a bit adrift – finding here a homely and secure atmosphere, Ben and his team support young people, and show them alternative life chances.
More from me next month – only 3 months to go, and still so much to see and learn.
In the meantime – have a peaceful, kind and sharing Christmas.
