Update from the Chair - September 2026

 

As you probably know by now, we have been turned down for lottery funding for Lucy's role. The main reason cited was insufficient evidence of community support for the role. We did supply evidence, but were constrained by a strict limit on the number of words per answer. Luckily, we have secured funding from a source that wishes to stay anonymous which will cover us for six months. This will enable us to re-apply and gather as many testimonials as possible. We already have messages of support from TVBC, our County Councillor, Sally Yalden, St Francis School and the Parish Council. But we still want more - so if you have something to say about Lucy's role as Community Engagement Coordinator - about the events she organises, the way she goes about it or the beneficial effect on the Valley Park community, please email me directly with your comments at chair@valleyparkcommunity.co.uk and I will use it in our new application. This is your chance to help us keep Lucy.

In other news, Michael Crutchley, the CEO of Brendoncare is coming to do a talk on a topic which is very much in the news at the moment - social care. Brendoncare have their own take on care in the community, so it will be interesting to hear what Michael has to say and ask him any questions. The date is 15th September, at the weekly Community Kettle. Come along at 12:00 to grab a coffee and a cake and the talk will begin around 12:30.

Finally, I'd like to welcome aboard our latest volunteer - Abbi - who will be using her marketing and social media skills to promote our events and bring in some more hirers and advertisers. 

Les Berridge
Chair of Trustees, Valley Park Community Association