A huge hello to all!

Well, here we are nearly in Spring; and I, for one, am feeling very optimistic about the future.

Here at Staffordshire Buddies we are experiencing change - though as I have said previously, change is not necessarily bad. It should give us the opportunity to re-evaluate and welcome new staff members and volunteers, who will generate new ideas and services.
I will, of course, be very sad to see Pete Turner leave; he has always been a very sincere and supportive manager. Since his appointment at Staffordshire Buddies we have seen a huge rise in new clients. Without him I know I could not have coped. I wish him lots of luck in his new career.
It can be difficult for some clients when we have change at Staffordshire Buddies. I want to stress that I'm here if anyone feels like they wish to discuss how they are feeling, and if they feel that there is anything we can do in the future - we are open to your suggestions.

Our Director, Chris, has been beavering away making contacts and hopefully securing funding. I have enormous faith in him! He is very 'clued-up' about what is going on out there, plus he's a nice guy too. That's enough!

Tnt Club
The TnT Club have been enjoying activities including; after school club, the Christmas party, and the visit to the Panto at the Regent. May I say a huge thank you to all of the volunteers and friends of Staffordshire Buddies who have ensured these events were a big success. Also, big thanks to Mike Kean from the Regent Theatre who gave us discounts on the tickets.
The next year of activities has now been planned up until the January 2003 Panto. It's going to be another very busy year as we now have more children using our services - with the likelihood of another 2-6 joining us in the near future. We'll soon be having to book 48 seater coaches rather than mini-buses. Still, it's gratifying to know that the children look forward to meeting up, and they certainly seem to enjoy themselves. Parents or Guardians too enjoy a well deserved break.

Women's Group
The women's group has been meeting less frequently than in previous months. This is due to the group's family and work commitments, and to the distances to be travelled that meeting up can entail. However, we are hoping to be able to offer an overnight stay somewhere especially pleasant - somewhere where the women can relax and have time away from their everyday responsibilities and simply be themselves. I will keep everyone informed. However, places will be limited so please let me know if you are interested.
The drop-in always welcomes new people warmly. If there is anyone who would like to attend but perhaps feels a little apprehensive, then please telephone me, and I will introduce you to the other clients, volunteers and staff on a gradual basis, until you feel comfortable enough to join the drop in.
In the meantime, take care, and hope to see you soon.