Donation Helps Craft ‘n’ Cards
October 2016
A charity comes into existence when an individual or a number of likeminded people identify a need that will help others. In Chester-Le-Street, June Turner was one such person. She was aware that there were a number of individuals within her local community who had a range of health and learning issues who left unsupported would become isolated and alone. That was the catalyst of an idea to do something about such a problem.
The ‘Chat and Craft’ group was set up through a local charity in 2009 and was funded via a grant from the lottery reaching communities. This evolved into the ‘Craft N Cards’ Group in 2012. It was not just a meeting place, but a place and time to engage in design and crafts. June is a tutor and has ran the group for several years. However, when the funding ended the craft group were devastated to think that they would no longer have the close bonds of friendship that they had formed over those years.
However, they continue to strive on to allow each individual and as a group to develop to their full potential. The core members have health issues, ranging from early Alzheimer’s, deafness, learning disabilities, depression and other long term problems so the need to feel safe in their environment is paramount.
June ably supported by her close colleague Nora Menzies continue to promote a sense of belonging and wellbeing in the group. This is evidenced by some of their comments…….
‘Very good company’
‘Happy with all I have achieved since joining the group’
‘Gave me respite ( for Tony who brings his wife who has Alzheimer’s)
‘Love all the variety of crafts we make’.
‘Enjoy myself in the relaxed atmosphere of the group’
‘Opened up a new interest and now I’m obsessed with crafting’
‘This is my sanctuary, my two hours out in my busy world’.
‘Brilliant atmosphere and have learned so much’.
‘Feels at home and nice to make exciting things, it gives me a great sense of achievement’.
‘I now interact better with people since joining the group’.
‘I now have more positive thoughts than before I joined the group’.
‘I feel I have grown as a person by giving me confidence. Great projects’.
‘I am unemployed and was beginning to feel unwanted. This group has boosted my confidence while learning new skills.’
‘The variety of projects and instruction is well worth the time spent at this group’.
These comments and the fact that all the work performed is on a voluntary basis was the perfect reason for Peter Ross, representing the Durham Benevolence to go along to one of the group’s meetings. There he met June and the group and engaged in the making of Christmas cards, painting and drawing. On behalf of the Province of Durham Peter presented June with a donation of £800. He congratulated everyone present for all their work and efforts wishing them all the very best for the future.
June confirmed the money would be used to purchase equipment and supplies for her group. She wished to express her appreciation to the Freemasons of Durham for their kind support and added that her late father William Bramwell Hallas had been a member of Accession Lodge in Stanley and he would have been delighted of the support given by masons.
Having read about the Craft N Cards Group, you may wish to join the group or help is some way. You are invited to call June on her mobile: 07772113015
Craft Group attends Sanders Communal Rooms, Bullion Lane, Chester- le- Street DH2 2DN. They meet on Wednesdays 10am – 12noon followed by the Card Group the same day 1.00pm – 3.00pm