Autumn 2023

Dear supporters

As the nights draw in and the temperatures drop, please think about those in our community who don’t have a warm, safe place to call home. The housing crisis is profoundly affecting the families we work with. Children tell us about how it makes them feel anxious and fearful of the future. Parents tell us that it is the most immediate challenge they are facing. The situation in London is deeply concerning but thanks to your support, we are working with more families to help them cope and move forward.

I hope that you are able to join us at our Annual Meeting on Tuesday 14th November at the Riverside Studios, next to Hammersmith Bridge. We will be hearing from Phyllida Lloyd who will talk to us about directing ‘Grenfell, In the words of survivors’ for the National Theatre. This play, written by Gillian Slovo, was delivered in collaboration with local community organisations and ‘explores the courage and resilience of the survivors and their continued campaign for justice’. It is a verbatim play which means the words used were from the testimony of residents. Phyllida will talk about the film making process and the issues it raises. There will also be a chance to meet our team and learn more about the work we do in our community.

Thank you to our wonderful Brook Green Events Committee and everyone who joined in the recent Annual WLAC Quiz which was another great success, raising over £10,000. There was a lot of hard work behind the scenes and spirited competition on the night. Our next events are the annual Evening of Bridge to be held on the 24th January, and our first ever ‘Celidh and curry’ evening to be held on Friday 26th January at the Hammersmith Society (also very close to Hammersmith Bridge!). We really hope you can join us. There will be a live band and expert ‘caller’ to help us all attempt and enjoy some Scottish dancing - no experience necessary!

We really hope you can join us at one (or several!) of our upcoming events. Another way to consider supporting us is through our Big Give Christmas Challenge, which allows you to double your donation for one week only.

Thank you so much for your ongoing support. We know that our therapy and counselling has long term positive impacts and we want to help more children and families. We continue to secure some funding from the local authorities but their resources are increasingly stretched. We rely on your generosity, commitment and loyalty.

Warm wishes

Heather Boxer
Chief Executive

To read the full Autumn 2023 newsletter please click here