From Joan Steel

In May we had a talk with short film by Dr Eatam about the charity Plan which plans to give the worlds most vunerable children the chance of a better life. We were told that the charity started after the Spanish civil war which left many children orphaned. John Langdon Davies decided to organise the children to live in colonies and have foster parents from all over the world to sponsor them. Plan now operates in 50 of the worlds poorest countries helping to raise children out of a life of poverty into a life of opportunity. The film which was narrated by a remote village child was called “Because I am a Girl”and highlighted the cruelty, violence, abuse and disadvantages suffered by girls because they are not valued or educated and mostly not wanted. The Plan programme helps to empower chidren to improve their lives and take control of their future, without help they may not have a future at all. Sponsors correspond with the child and are allowed a short visit and are sent photographs, thus they share in the joy of supporting a life full of opportunity. (Sponsor forms are available from Valley Wives members.) Doreen gave the vote of thanks, saying what good work is being done by Plan and how lucky we all feel to live in this country. £60 was donated from the meeting.

In June, Heather, a Trustee of South Bucks Counselling Service described her work and the aims of this non-profit making organisation which is a registered charity. It is a service which offers you help when you feel you can no longer cope. The counsellors are volunteers chosen for their social skills and are highly trained, at university on a 3 year course. They are able to provide longer term help than the NHS who are only able to provide a 6 to 8 week session. Patients are often then referred to a counsellor. It is also possible to self-refer. The sessions do not provide a quick or easy answer to a problem, but by talking to a counsellor you can begin to see your situation more clearly then are able to make decisions in order to achieve a more satisfying life. It helps you to know yourself better and forgive yourself more. Clients are asked to make a contribution towards the cost of their counselling, according to their means. Hilary, who accompanied Heather, raised £1,500 towards the charity by running in a marathon race. Heather Meyer gave the vote of thanks to Heather and Hilary for telling us about the valuable and really good service that the counsellors provide.

Our next meeting on July 6th is a practical session on Bling Broaches The interesting object begins with letter L. On August 2nd ww have a Pot Luck Supper in the Small Hall at 8pm, please bring food,drink cutlery, plate bowl and glass. Sept 6th is an Open Meeting on “Workaid”. All Welcome.