2009 Chair's Report

Swansea Children's Therapy Centre Support Group

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CHAIR’S REPORT 2009

In a year when there has been a lot of confusion, the work of the Support Group continues and looks set to carry on as the next year develops. For the time being, at any rate, the proposed merger of services and integration at Morriston has been cancelled and we can readdress our efforts to our own needs as a unit.

Now that we can look back on the year, the contribution from Pete Orphan and Swansea Rugby Club has been immense, with the purchase of the Wii equipment and large plasma screen television, with an excellent movable display stand has been a real highlight and our thanks once again go to Pete, his congregation and the players, members and managers of Swansea RFC for their kind contribution. Following an unprecedented two years as the target charity for the Whites, they have now moved on to the Gladiators Rugby and good luck to them in that venture. More will come about sponsors and funds later.

However, we are indebted yet again to our friends from Pontlliw Football Club’s cycling enthusiasts for another excellent contribution. This was enhanced by the presentation night at the Tafarn y Trap in Gorseinon, where the landlord donated the proceeds of the quiz night being held at the same time. Our regular 10K runner, Simon Lane, again came up with the goods and he has become, we think, our top individual fund raiser by some way. Simon was also one of an adventurous few who took on the giant Zip Slide at Newport.

The therapists have now selected specific items of equipment that they need and will be writing individual letters of thanks to allocated sponsors. We were able to hold our pantomime trip again and the Christmas Party at the Ramada Jarvis was probably the best yet, with excellent entertainment and a great contribution from Mr Morris. It is also appropriate to mention yet again the friendship and professional but free help of Dave Dow of Dragon Tales Rugby, who immediately agreed to step in when our regular photographer was unable to attend due to family illness. On that topic, we wish a speedy recovery to Simon Houlton after a serious operation. Also, we would like to acknowledge again our excellent Santa, John Salter and his ‘Elf’, Ceri Barnard.

At long last, Wendy’s retirement actually took place. It is a great credit to Clare Whatty that, despite her retirement from the committee, she still attends and gives us great help. I should also mention that Wendy Godwin has battled through valiantly performing some of the secretarial duties, despite a heavy workload. The committee is still being driven by the efforts of a very small number of people and we desperately need more people to help share the load. Kate continues as Treasurer, also with a heavy workload and I have expressed the desire that we introduce more members, as age, health and time pressures mean that the current Chair will need to find a replacement sooner or later, reminding you that I came in as a ‘temporary placement’. I sincerely hope that others will join this little committee very soon.

Roger Gadd (Chair, Swansea Children’s Therapy Centre Support Group)