MSP visits Quarriers ahead of 150th anniversary celebrations
Former Quarriers volunteer Natalie Don returned to the charity for the first time since becoming an MSP ahead of its 150th anniversary celebrations.
The MSP for Renfrewshire North and West visited Quarriers, one of Scotland’s leading social care charities, to be updated about their range of services and plans to mark the special anniversary for the organisation in November.
The charity, based in Quarriers Village near Bridge of Weir, provide practical care and support for vulnerable children, adults and families who face extremely challenging circumstances.
Ms Don said she was happy to visit as she reflects as a time as a volunteer with the organisation.
She said:“I was delighted to visit Quarriers for the first time as the local constituency MSP because their cause is very close to my heart.
“As a former volunteer for the charity, I am well aware of the life-enhancing practical care and support they provide for vulnerable children, adults and families who face extremely challenging circumstances so it was great to have an early opportunity to catch up with Ron (Culley) and Carol (Eden).
“It was inspiring to hear about how dedicated Quarriers staff and volunteers are overcoming challenges during the Covid-19 pandemic to continue offering specialist support for adults affected by learning disabilities, complex physical disabilities or autism; residential childcare and resources for families, as well as help and advice for young people with addiction or self-harm issues.
She added:“With the 150th anniversary of William Quarrier founding the charity coming up this year, I can’t wait to see the exciting plans to commemorate the special occasion coming to fruition.”
Ron Culley, chief executive officer for Quarriers, said:“We were pleased to welcome Natalie back to Quarriers and bring her up to date with our experiences of leading the charity through the tough times of the pandemic and our preparations to celebrate reaching the milestone of 150 years.”