THE Holsworthy Day Companions recently received ‘goody bags’ for their clients and a cheque totaling £491 from Waitrose Community Award.

The award was welcomed by members of the group.

Day Companions manager, Anne Jose said: “We were so grateful to Waitrose and their customers for the wonderful amount raised and for their support. As we receive no funding except for some donations and the fees from attending clients, such a sum as received from Waitrose is extremely important to us.

“As in past years, we purchased everyday essential groceries and presented all our clients with hampers, as for many who have little company at home, they enjoy the Christmas events we organise.”

An open day was organised so that anyone who wanted more information about the service provided could ’drop in’.

There was an added bonus with entertainment provided by the Bude Folk Club.

Anne added: “The music was hugely enjoyable and a great thank you is due to Bude Folk Club for a lovely afternoon. It was just a shame that despite advertising in the paper and around town, we did not have more visitors join us.

“As well as the normal day care service, we also have free afternoon drop in sessions every Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday when we welcome anyone to come in for a natter or join in with various popular games, the only charge being if a cup of tea or coffee is required.”

The group now operates from the Scout and Guide Hut, next to the Leisure Centre, and is accessible for people to ’drop in’.

Anne was keen to clarify some inaccuracies regarding the group. She said: “We are ready to receive clients from 10am to 4.30pm every Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday. It has also been said that we only have four clients. Again inaccurate. It is true that we have a lot fewer than in the past but we have been reluctant to advertise fully as of yet as we are still awaiting a new charity number.

“It is true that we did not achieve the ’preferred provider’ status that Social Services require to directly refer clients to us but they will refer to us if we are requested by name by the client/carer and of course we can accept members on a private basis.

“We had to achieve a 70% on the application form in order to get ’preferred provider’ and on two applications, as well as a couple of other items, we only achieved 30% on proving that Holsworthy Hospital (where we used to be for five years) was suitable for elderly disabled access! We are still offering the same service that Social Services have described as ’no other comparable service in this area’ that we have offered over the last 24 years, albeit in a new location and a more friendly name. All we need is the support of Holsworthy and district in order for it to continue. With all the pressures on social care, it really is a case of use it or lose it scenario.”