Supplies and volunteers needed at relief group
On Friday I visited LVS Hassocks – a specialist school for 63 children with a diagnosis of autism. I joined students in planting sunflowers and was given a tour by Jen Weeks, principal of LVS Hassocks, who has been shortlisted for Headteacher of the Year in the Tes Schools Award 2022 announced this week. I received a very warm welcome at the school and it was good to see first-hand the work they do.
I welcome the National Autism Strategy which sets out the real steps Government is going to take over the next five years – to create a society which is inclusive of people with autism.
The strategy will give the extra the support needed – backed by £75million funding in its first year – to improve diagnosis and education through to employment.
On Saturday my wife, Barbara, and I were delighted to visit Petworth Ukraine Relief in their logistics HQ, a barn just north of Lodsworth.
I met with organiser Eddie Boyes, Kirstie Madgwick, Andrew Ashtonsmith and many others including hosts and their Ukrainian guests.
My Chichester colleague Gillian Keegan MP came too as the initiative is being supported far and wide (our respective constituencies meet at Halfway Bridge on the A272).
Right now, Petworth Ukraine
Relief urgently need medical supplies (bandages, dressings, over the counter medicines, old crutches and air cast boots etc), tinned and packet food of all kinds, baby supplies (nappies, powdered milk) and general toiletries – also volunteers to pack and sort and drive!
Donations can be dropped off in town – find the group on Facebook or I’m happy to connect if you can volunteer.
A lorry will be taking donations to an orphanage, which is currently caring for 257 children near Ukraine’s capital Kyiv.
This is just one of many groups in Arundel & South Downs doing brilliant work and I hope to visit and report back on others as it is great to see so much support being given by local residents.
Across West Sussex there has been a fantastic response and people are helping in many ways from volunteering, hosting families to donation goods or money.
If any constituent is hosting and needs help or escalation obtaining visas for your Ukrainian guests, please contact me directly with the application numbers.
As of today, I and my team have helped intercede on 120 different claims, of which 110 have been resolved successfully – so with a bit of pressure(!) the system is working.