At the Club Zoom meeting on 15^th February, we were treated to an informative talk from Rachel Page who, along with one assistant and five trustees, runs the local charity Borowbrook Home Link.

The Charity was set up in 2002 and has been supported by our Rotary Club for many years. In 2012 they received "The Queens Award for Voluntary Service" and currently have some 175 Members. It is their hope to expand their membership in the coming year by involving more of the 1400 residents of Ockbrook and Borrowash who are over 65 years of age and have need of assistance or companionship following the pandemic restrictions. Also, to increase their take up with residents of the 146 local Social Housing Bungalows from which the currently have only 22 Members.

The membership falls mainly into three categories, very active people who can assist by volunteering, residents who are becoming lonely due to a decreasing circle of friends and people who due to infirmities find it difficult to get about.

Currently services provided include telephone befriending, shopping assistance, providing advice and links to local groups. They have recently distributed 200 Gift Bags through the Ockbrook and Borrowash Neighbourhood Network and the local Churches.

Looking ahead they are looking at linking with the Parish Council Green Spaces Scheme which is good for mental and physical wellbeing. An approach has also been made to Erewash Sound with a view to providing radios for Members. It is the intention to become known as a proactive "Local Hub".

After a question-and-answer session, the vote of thanks was given by Rotarian Nigel Roberts who praised their activities and asked for regular updates so that The Rotary Club of Church Wilne could become more involved.

If you wish to know more about the Church Wilne Rotary and how the members aim to make a difference in the local community of for more information on Rotary, our speaker evenings, events and the main activities organised by our club please contact our Secretary, David Hewitt at: rccw1220@gmail.com

Rotarian Brian Stokes
For Church Wilne Rotary