Rye and Winchelsea befriending charity FAiR (Friends Altogether in Rother) says it hopes to expand the number of people it helps by including more young people and families. The charity’s Tilling Tea and Cake initiative has been bringing local people together for almost two years at the Tilling Green Community Centre, and it recently launched a new monthly event at Winchelsea Beach.
Jan Crook, FAiR’s community co-ordinator, says the charity wants to be more inclusive. “There are a lot of struggling families locally who need help and advice when it comes to getting access to social services and the healthcare system. We need people to come forward and let us know how we can help. We really do want to be FAiR for all.”
As well as a chance to catch up and chat, the forty-two people who attended the meeting in Winchelsea Beach on Wednesday, July 30 also heard from other local groups offering help and support.
The Hastings and Rother Citizens Advice Bureau team explained their role, especially over accessing help with the cost of heating. The East Sussex branch of the Association of Carers discussed the support they can give to carers who are looking after friends and family. Sussex Outreach Support gave details of a new bus that would be soon visiting rural parts of the district, offering healthcare advice in areas with little or no public transport.
The charity is also bringing in guests with an interesting story to tell. Last week at Winchelsea Beach, Simon Parsons, from Rye Heritage Centre, brought a slide show of old photos including the workhouse on Strand Hill and the lighthouse at Rye Harbour. Along with some fascinating history of the area, which included the Battle of Winchelsea, he explained how the centre helps the local tourist industry.
FAiR’s events always get enthusiastic response from the people attending. For Terry Dudley, from Winchelsea Beach, it’s a chance to meet up with friends. “I really recommend it and I’ve started going on walks with people I’ve met here.” Tracy Fitzgerald, who visits from Beckley, loves the support she gets too. “There’s a sense of community and friendship which has been hugely beneficial.”
The next Saturday Social – Tilling Tea and Cake – is 10-12pm at Tilling Green Community Centre on Saturday, August 16. At Winchelsea Beach, FAiR’s next event is on Wednesday, August 27 10-12pm at the Community Hall.
You can find more about FAiR here.
Image Credits: Miriam McGurk .
Thank you, James Stewart. Another informative and enjoyable event, both for attendees and volunteers. FAiR brings support, help, and a warm welcome within these friendly communities.