PR Date: Tuesday, 24 September 2019 - 4:15pm
On Monday 23 September 2019, North Hertfordshire District Council (NHDC) hosted the High Sheriff of Hertfordshire - Sarah Beazley - for the day. Sarah’s priorities for her year in office are building stronger communities, interfaith and integration.
The day began at the Council Offices, where the High Sheriff met NHDC’s Chairman Jean Green, Leader of the Council, Martin Stears-Handscomb, Chief Executive David Scholes and Deputy Chief Executive Anthony Roche.
The High Sheriff then set off on a tour of the District, starting at the Ravidassia Community Centre in Hitchin. The centre is currently raising its profile, and Secretary Vijai Mehar is keen to make it a community hub. Vijai said: "On behalf of the Ravidassia Community Centre we were very privileged to host a visit from the High Sheriff of Hertfordshire. We are all working towards a common goal of building stronger communities, interfaith and integration for all. The Ravidassia Community Centre strongly believes in Sarah Beazley’s vision and we will continue to work with local charities and organisations to ensure that our common goal is being delivered."
Sarah listened to presentations from Best Before Café in Letchworth and Hitchin Food Rescue Hub which both exist to save surplus supermarket food from landfill and distribute it to people who need it. Citizens Advice North Herts explained that they offer free, confidential information on money, immigration, benefits and more. North Herts Centre for Voluntary Services (NHCVS) also presented about their work to support local charities, community groups and start up projects.
A video was shown about the Generations Together Project which took its inspiration from the Channel 4 series ‘Old People's Home for 4 Year Olds’. Its aim is to improve the well-being of care home residents and the children alike whilst creating learning opportunities and challenging perceptions through activities such as dancing, cake decorating and games.
Royston and District Community Transport told the group about their door-to-door transport scheme which is invaluable for those who are unable to use public transport and do not have the use of a car. The organisation relies largely on volunteer drivers using their own cars but they also offer larger accessible vehicles.
Representatives from Hitchin Peace Garden explained how it has created a safe, relaxing and tranquil place for people of all faiths and the wider community.
In the afternoon, the High Sherriff visited North Herts Minority Ethnic Forum (NHMEF) in Hitchin, which provides services to improve the quality of life of ethnic minorities who live in the district, and Jackie’s Drop In, located in Letchworth which is a centre for adults with disabilities.
Cllr Jean Green, NHDC’s Chairman, said "We were delighted to introduce the High Sheriff to some of our fantastic staff and community groups. Visits from the High Sheriff are important in highlighting the great work being done by so many people within our community."
High Sherriff, Sarah Beazley, said: 'Thank you to Chairman Jean Green and all the team at NHDC who arranged an excellent day, showcasing great work across the District. The series of presentations in the morning enabled a number of local organisations to learn about each other and it is so important that we share and celebrate successes in order to inspire and motivate, and join together to tackle challenges. As always, dedicated volunteers help staff deliver important services and it is a real privilege to meet those who work so hard in different ways to help others in Hertfordshire.'
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