A charity which provides support to adults with learning disabilities has received a boost, thanks to a £3,000 donation from the chairman of Bolsover District Council.
Councillor Duncan Haywood handed over a cheque to the Just Good Friends Club, which is based in Clowne and Ripley and helps people from all over Derbyshire, during a meeting of Full Council on Wednesday 7 October.
Cllr Haywood, who represents Barlborough on the district council, chose the Just Good Friends Club as his Charity of the Year when he was re-elected as Chairman in May. The money was raised through collections at various events.
The Just Good Friends Club was set up 29 years ago and provides daytime hubs, evening social clubs, and social events such as days out and weekends away for adults, as well as a youth club for young people aged 11 to 17.
It’s run by 14 members of staff and 11 volunteers and its services are currently used by 172 members. It also provides a monthly night-time session which is open to anyone with a learning disability and attracts between 80 and 90 people.
Cllr Haywood said: “I’m absolutely delighted to have been able to have collected such a significant sum of money to help this fantastic charity.
“This marvellous cause is a lifeline to so many families, providing social activities and helping to combat isolation. It’s something that’s very close to my heart.”
Sare Kent-Wade, chief executive officer of the Just Good Friends Club, said the donation would go towards the charity’s core funding.
She added: “Any amount of funding is really appreciated, but to be acknowledged at this level in the community for the work we do is outstanding – the money is a bonus.”
To find out more about the Just Good Friends Club, please visit https://jgfc.org.uk/