Members of the League have voted to change their name and upgrade their charitable status to reflect their work better.
The Friends, who are to become known as the Friends of Fairford & Lechlade Communities, provide health and social
care within Fairford, Lechlade and the surrounding villages. This includes a Home Nursing Team providing end-of-life care, patients’ transport and a range of other services and funding that supports the local community. Members consider that the present name does not reflect accurately the widespread work that they do.
“There is still a perception by a large number of people that our services are mainly associated with supporting Fairford Hospital,” said League Chairman Graham Hewitt. “This does not help promote the work that is actually being done. Ninety-five percent of our work is focused on the community and only five percent within Fairford Hospital, which is now an Outpatients Clinic.
“A name change will reflect better the work we do, will reduce confusion and should further strengthen the support we have in the community” said Graham. The League will continue to strongly support Fairford Hospital, as it is an extremely valuable facility. They aim to introduce the name change next year.
At the same time as changing its name the League will change its charitable status. At present it is an Unincorporated Organisation. With the responsibilities that the League has the Charity Commission recommend operating as a Charitable Incorporated Organisation, providing a better platform for delivering the services.
Further information from Graham Hewitt 01285 851022; graham.hewitt@yahoo.co.uk
Our communities raised a magnificent total of £20,379, including Gift Aid, during this year’s House-to-House event. Thank you to all our volunteer co-ordinators, collectors and supporters.
DIARY DATE: CHRISTMAS BAZAAR Saturday 18 November at Fairford Community Centre 10.00am – 12.00 noon. Christmas cards, raffle tickets, cake sales, books, bottle and gift stalls. Refreshments will be available. (Raffle tickets can also be bought at our Charity Shop in Lechlade with a first prize of £100 cash and many more prizes from local businesses. League of Friends Christmas Cards are also available to purchase from the shop in Lechlade.) Click here to find out how you can help.
If you need further information about The League of Friends please contact Christine Barker on 07767 408409 or email fairford.lof@hotmail.co.uk.
Your continued support is very much appreciated – click here to read more.
