As part of our social value commitment, we have established a partnership with the Cheshire Community Foundation. The Cheshire Community Foundation raises funds to support hundreds of amazing small charities and voluntary groups across the whole of Cheshire and Warrington. They connect people and companies who would like to make a difference with those most in need of help. Through our partnership, we sit on their Crewe fund advisory board to help decide where those funds should be allocated. Earlier this week, we had the pleasure of visiting some of the fantastic charities that we have supported.
South Cheshire CLASP
South Cheshire CLASP aims to reach out and support those in the local community who are affected by the difficulties associated with parenting alone, whatever their circumstances. They offer friendly support and encouragement to assist with the progression from crisis to wholeness and a positive future for the whole family. The charity provides support through a range of services, including counselling and activities. Support from South Cheshire CLASP is provided to parents, children and young people. From spending time with the charity, it was clear to see the genuine care and passion that they had for the service that they provide.
Hope4More
Hope4More support children with anxiety who struggle to attend school. They offer support and advice for children dealing with emotional issues, and help their families to better understand them. The founders of Hope4More explained to us the different services that they offer which includes art projects, sustainability projects, counselling and parent support groups. The courses give the service users a safe space where they are able to feel comfortable and express themselves.
We were shown some of the incredible art that has been created by users of the charity. The talent on display was incredible. The art courses that Hope4More run end with the young people displaying their designs at a special exhibition for them to build confidence and give an amazing sense of accomplishment. We were also read out a testimonial from a user of the charity who shared how Hope4More had changed their life, and there wasn’t a dry eye in the building!
Stroke Survivors Speech & Language Support Group
Our final visit of the day was to meet Stroke Survivors Speech & Language Support Group. This charity aims to help Stroke Survivors with speech, language and communication difficulties to gain more contact with others and to rid them of their social isolation. By providing a relaxing environment, with peer support and practical tools to develop new ways of communicating, they help to rebuild their confidence and reduce their vulnerability. They want them to feel that they matter and are valued members of our community.
Founded by Liz, who was inspired by her father surviving a Stroke, the passion of the team was clear to see. We were shown pictures and stories of some of the amazing activities that the Support Group had hosted for its users including a boat trip and quiz night. The work that the charity do in enhancing the lives of sufferers of Stroke and giving them a sense of belonging again was incredible to see.
