Charity provides help for elderly in rural Rye and Battle area

A charity led-organisation serving rural villages such as Northiam, Robertsbridge and Hurst Green recently invited five organisations to its premises to demonstrate its unique approach to providing opportunities for older people. Representatives from Age UK, Ageing Well, Age Concern, Hawkhurst Friendship Club and the MS Society attended the open morning at WRAP in Hawkhurst.

They had a tour of the facility and learnt about the charity’s three independent services: Day opportunities for older people. This runs from 9.30am to 3.30pm on Mondays and Wednesdays; day support services for people with dementia. This is available from 9.30am to 3.30pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays, and an activity centre for the over 50s.

Courses run throughout the year ranging from t’ai chi and ancestry to photography and creative writing.

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Sandra Armstrong, Chair of the MS Society, said, “I think WRAP is absolutely marvellous, a much needed service and I’m sure it will be a great success.”

Rachel Lewis, Chief Executive of Sound Architect, said, “WRAP is a wonderful community service for Hawkhurst and also for towns and villages nearby, including Hurst Green, Robertsbridge, Wadhurst and Northiam.

“We only opened in March and have had over 250 people benefiting from our services.We now want to spread the word of what we offer further afield.

“We are looking to build, in particular, our Monday sessions, and have recently introduced a bursary scheme which means the cost for people self-referring is just £10 - a third of the usual cost. 

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“We can also help with transport where needed, and on top of that we are currently offering taster days where you can come along and spend the day with us completely free of charge.

“There really is no pressure. You can come to WRAP purely to meet people, have lunch and have some fun, or, if you prefer, you could take part in an activity such as cards, indoor bowls or art – it’s entirely up to you!

“One thing is for certain - whatever you want to do at WRAP you can be sure of a very warm and friendly welcome.”
If you have an inquiry, either email through the website – www.grovemills.org.ukor call 01580 755869.