Adapt (NE) invited to PM’s Social Enterprise Roundtable

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Director of Adapt (NE), Liz Prudhoe, was invited to speak at Downing Street last month at a special roundtable for heads of social enterprises. The event, organised by Lord Bird, founder of The Big Issue, was a chance for leading individuals from social enterprises across a range of sectors to discuss how the government can protect and expand the role social enterprises can and should play in the public service economy.

Liz (pictured back, centre) was asked to speak about the difference Adapt (NE) is making in improving the quality of life for those with a disability, and those with mobility restrictions due to living in remote locations and limited access to public transport.

She says, “It was a privilege to be asked to attend this event focusing on social enterprises. As a small but growing organisation, the roundtable was an opportunity to demonstrate the significant role Adapt (NE) plays in the local community and economy. We were able to showcase the broad portfolio of services we offer, from transport to advocacy, and from equipment loan to the new community café at our Burn Lane site”.

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Blackpool jaunt for Tynedale Stroke Club

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Members of Tynedale Stroke Club enjoyed a short break in Blackpool last week, thanks in part to funding from the Co-op local community fund.

Cash generated when customers swipe their membership cards in stores and from the 5p carrier bag levy is distributed to nominated local charities every six months.

The funding paid for the transport to and from Blackpool, provided by Adapt (NE) and Jewitts coaches for the 24-strong group. The funds also covered the cost of hiring a carer to join them on the trip, meaning that some of the passenger’s partners could also take a break.

The group stayed at the New Mayfair Hotel in Blackpool, part of the CQC registered ‘Safehands’ holiday company which caters for people with a variety of disabilities, with hoists and other specialist equipment provided in the rooms.

As well as being entertained by displays from Blackpool National Armed Forces Day which included the Irish Guards Choir and an air show, some of the group visited the Tower Ballroom and had a dance to the famous Wurlitzer organ.

Organiser Eileen Vale of Tynedale Stroke Club says, “We all had a fantastic weekend with brilliant weather. The hotel provided a great service and nightly entertainment and our drivers were so friendly and accommodating; we couldn’t have asked for more and will definitely be going again!”

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Great Northumberland: Hexham Launch Event

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Great Northumberland is 56 days of family-friendly arts, culture and heritage events across the county. In a year that sees the Great Exhibition of the North put the spotlight on the north, Great Northumberland is about celebrating the best that Northumberland has to offer.

The summer begins on Saturday 7 July with a spectacular opening ceremony in Hexham. This will be a fantastic opener for a summer-long programme of events, with a vibrant programme of music, street theatre and a spectacular showcase event produced and created by outdoor arts afficionados, ‘Walk the Plank’.

Adapt (NE) is pleased to be a part of the event. As well as transporting performers around the town, we will be providing the free park and ride shuttle bus service from the mart up to the town.

For more information on the launch event at the county-wide programme of events please visit: www.greatnorthumberland.co.uk.

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