Harlow Community Update

  

Ecco.   A great place.  This co-operative/charity based at Bush Fair recycles everything from batteries to clothes and sofas.  Whilst the clothes often go to Africa, items such as furniture and electricals are sold in Eccos shops around the town.  It was a good visit, and a brilliant concept.  The dedication of the three staff members I met was extraordinary.  Ecco has three aims:  to protect the environment, to stop waste, and to help those on lower incomes, by providing affordable commodities.  It does this admirably.

Princess Alexandra Hospital.   Back to Princess Alexandra Hospital today, this time for a regular meet with Chairman Gerald Coteman.  I regularly meet with the Chairman, to discuss a range of issues - some of them particularly difficult.  Nevertheless, I regularly find Mr Coteman to be open and honest - straight talking about the difficulties PAH faces.  He is an asset to the hospital.

After, I visited the Cancer ward in Addison House with Robert Duncombe, to meet DRs, nurses, staff and patients.   The ward is really well run - but very crammed, with some staff sharing five to a small office.
Then to the Cellular Pathology Laboratories.  State of the art machinery, state of the art technicians.  PAH is doing some ground-breaking research into Cancer and related research.  The Scientists research in some areas, is being rolled out around the country - so successful has it been.  I also met two members of staff who are cycling to Paris, in order to raise money for sponsorship.The first picture shows one of the scientists. Note the pens in his pocket!

Harlow Canal Boat Project.  Another visit here with East of England Social Enterprise Unit.  A chance to get a catch-up and hear the latest news.

Harlow Baptist Church.  A New Minister has arrived at the Church and there was a special celebration, with a moving service - and a packed church.  After, tea in the Baptist Hall.  I have never seen quite so many cakes on display.

Meeting with local Church Leaders:  I meet with Harlow's Church Leaders every few weeks.  This time, we discussed a range of issues from Street Pastors, to Trafficking/Prostitution and newspaper adverts as well as the work of faith communities.

Derwent Centre:  A few hours spent meeting the North Essex Mental Health Trust to discuss mental health issues.  I then visited the Derwent Centre, which looks after those facing mental health difficulties.  I also went to the wards and the the activity centres set up within Derwent, to assist patients with their recovery.  This included an impressive woodwork centre.

by Robert Halfon - www.roberthalfon.blogspot.com