This is the last Neil’s Notices that I shall be writing, as I will have left Staffordshire Buddies by the time you will be reading this. I am going to carry on being a volunteer though so you may still see me around. I am going to work for North Staffordshire Health Authority as a HIV project worker – Positive action post. This is an exciting new post that I am really looking forward to. It doesn’t seem that long ago that I started to work here. It is actually two and one half years now and it seems to have flown by. I was a volunteer for Staffordshire Buddies for eight years before working here. I just want to take this opportunity to thank everyone that I have met over the years and hopefully in the future meet up again.
Events
This April a number of us went to the Gala Bingo. A few were old hands at the game but me and Jody had never played. The tension was tremendous as each number was called, and having 6 books to look at was difficult for us beginners. Jonathan won a few times but me and Jody didn’t. My palms were sweating as I had only a few numbers to go. I don’t think I’d been that nervous since I first flew in an aeroplane. All had a smoky, but enjoyable night.
A sexual health workshop for people living with HIV will be held at the Hanley Centre on Wednesday 25th July see ’Diary & Notes for details.

A big thank you to one and all

Neil xx

Positive Lives wishes to thank Neil for all his hard work during his time with us. As a regular contributor to our publication as well as a dedicated staff member and friend, he will be missed by us all. Thankfully, Neil’s great personal skills and experience will not be lost as he has returned to Staffordshire Buddies as a volunteer. We would like to wish him every success in his new role.

At last better weather!! (well slightly!). We all seem to ‘perk’ up when the sun is shinning regardless of any problems. Personally I feel as if I could conquer the world at the moment! (until it rains again, so don’t hold your breath!).

Things at the centre have been extremely busy. The women’s group has met regularly and have begun to plan monthly activities. They have attended a meeting at AB Plus Birmingham to meet with the new project worker at Barnardos. Although there for only a short time, the women enjoyed meeting up with some old faces from previous activities shared with the group. Lunch was lovely and the wonderful friendly staff couldn’t have been more welcoming. Many thanks AB Plus!
The TNT Club is still going strong with the dedication of some wonderfully committed volunteers. Activities are now confirmed for the summer trips. Its unbelievable at how quickly this has come round again! We are sticking with some old favorites, [the children’s of course!] like Alton Towers and theTittesworth reservoir and Barbeque, but we also intend on introducing some as yet, not experienced activities too! Wish us luck and watch this space!

Finally, as you may be aware, there have been a few changes at Staffs Buddies, particularly around a change in staff. Although it is always sad when people leave, I also see it as rather exciting time. New people with new ideas and enthusiasm surely cannot be bad? I look forward immensely to working with new colleagues and know that whoever fills the new positions will help take the organization into another new and exciting era! Whilst on the subject of staff changes, may I thank all clients and volunteers for all their hard work, particularly through the last few weeks. Sarah and I couldn’t have waded through without you! We can’t express enough our appreciation. Take care, hope to see/speak with you soon,

Rosie