New Mid Suffolk Chair announces support for disability charities in Thornham Magna

Posted by Communications on 6 June 2023 | Comments

Two charities in Thornham Magna will be supported by Mid Suffolk District Council’s new chairman Cllr Rowland Warboys.

Cllr Warboys was elected Chair of Mid Suffolk District Council at its Full Council meeting on 22nd May, succeeding former Chair Cllr James Caston.

Cllr Daniel Pratt, Green party member for Battisford & Ringshall was elected to serve as Vice Chair.

One of the functions of the incoming Chair is to select a charity and arrange fundraising activities throughout their term of office.

Cllr Warboys has selected Beyond the Wall and Street Forge Workshops, both in the Gislingham ward, as his chosen charities. Both groups support youths and adults with disabilities.

Beyond the Wall aims to build the confidence and self-esteem of users, teaching them skills which will help them unlock future opportunities in mainstream education, sheltered volunteering or employment.

Street Forge offers a range of activities including woodwork and woodturning, horticulture, cooking and arts and crafts supporting adults with physical, sensory or learning difficulties.

Cllr Warboys said:
“Firstly, my thanks to my fellow councillors for electing me to serve as Chairman. During my time in office, I would like to raise awareness of the importance of the democratic progress and encourage young people across the district to be more engaged in democracy and help prepare them to take up their roles as young citizens.

“My two chosen charities during my year are Street Forge and Beyond the Wall. Both these charities work with people from the age of 16 who have a disability, focused on removing barriers to enable them to achieve their potential for a rich and meaningful life through tuition and guidance.”