Norwood client’s story pays dividends at equity dinner
SIMON PILER has Asperger’s and vision impairment but enjoys a high level of independence thanks to Norwood’s accommodation services.
On Monday night, he told an audience of 370 about the difference its assistance had made to his life.
Mr Piler was interviewed on stage during Norwood’s private equity dinner, which raised more than £200,000 towards services such as social work and support for vulnerable children, which receive no statutory funding.
“I came from Harrogate,” he said. “I was really upset. I didn’t like Harrogate at all because people weren’t willing to help me as much as Norwood.”
Within the Norwood fold, he had quickly made friends “and the staff were brilliant. I really appreciate what they do for me.”
To audience laughter, he added: “Whatever I do that upsets them, I’m very sorry [for].”
He appreciated the charity’s help for those who “can’t speak up for themselves”.
Mr Piler was part of a diverse roster of speakers, with the headline address delivered by Sir Martin Sorrell, chief executive of advertising and marketing company WPP. His expectation was that the Brexit process would be long and hard — the opposite of his preference.
The appeal film, Personal Best, offered snapshots of Norwood clients
who had been helped to maximise their potential.
Entertainment was from Jon Culshaw, who said a general election was an exciting time for impressionists. He then launched into a series of impersonations of politicians from Ed Miliband to Donald Trump, staying on to announce the winners of raffle prizes including a trip for two to the Amalfi coast and Capri.
Writing in the brochure, Elaine Kerr, Norwood’s chief executive, said the charity took pride in providing “industry-leading care. This means always innovating and keeping up to date with the latest technology.”
Proceeds from events such as the dinner “will allow us to continue our vital work with people like Simon for years to come”.