New Bishop of Dover praises work
of Strode Park during visit to coastal towns
The new Bishop of Dover, the Right Reverend Trevor Willmott praised the 'valuable' work of the Strode Park Foundation during his visit to the centre on Wednesday. The trip formed part of the new Bishop's tour of the Herne Bay and Whitstable area.
During the visit, Bishop Trevor spent time with some of the people with learning and physical disabilities who use the services at the Foundation. The Bishop learnt about the rehabilitation services offered to people with neurological disabilities and met young people like Paula Collard who access the training courses through the 'Lifestyles Academy'.
The Bishop was shown around the centre at Herne Bay by Chairman Mr Martin Conybeare and Director of Care Mr John Cotterill.
Praising the charity, the Bishop said: "The Strode Park Foundation provides valuable, caring services to many people with disabilities including residential and respite care, rehabilitation and life skills training. Strode Park requires all the support we can offer as it continues to lovingly support people with complex needs, helping them to achieve independence."
The Bishop, who became Bishop of Dover last month, visited the Strode Park Foundation as part of his tour of the Herne Bay and Whitstable area with the purpose of building up a picture of life in the region.
During the day Bishop Trevor enjoyed walking tours of Herne Bay and met local clergy over lunch. In the afternoon Bishop Trevor visited Whitstable, where he stopped to enjoy some oysters before touring the Horsebridge Community Centre and taking a tea break at the Chives café.
In the evening around 100 people attended a 'Question and Answer' event at Seasalter Christian Centre where local people had the opportunity to ask the Bishop anything. The event was attended by business and community leaders and church members.
Ends
Photo shows Bishop Trevor with Paula Collard at the lifeskills training centre at Strode Park (high res), Also taking tea at Chives with centre deputy manager Ors (low res - can send higher res photo)
Further information from:
Emily Shepherd, Director of Communication 01227 459 401, 07876 210 446
Notes for Editors
Bishop Trevor Willmott was installed as Bishop of Dover on February 6th 2010. Bishop Trevor has designated oversight of the Church of England Canterbury Diocese on behalf of the Archbishop of Canterbury. The Diocese stretches from Maidstone to the East coast and includes over 280 parishes.
Strode Park Foundation is Kent's premier charity for people with disabilities. The Foundation has a 60 year history of providing care and leisure services for people with disabilities who wish to attain the maximum level of independence. Services include residential and respite care, rehabilitation, therapeutic services, day care and home care. www.strodepark.org.uk