Our guests were welcomed to the workshop by Neil Sainsbury, Talkback’s Head of Adult Services, who introduced them to Marcus, Jay and Lewis, members of The Accessible Workshop. They gave the MPs a tour, talked about items they had made and gave a demonstration of the work they do.
Neil commented: “It was so wonderful for our members to be given the opportunity to demonstrate what they are capable of when they are given the support and encouragement they deserve. They were also able to showcase the importance of local services in helping these young adults develop skills to increase their independence, so they are able to contribute to the community.”
Alan Lawrence, our Senior Workshop Facilitator, explained what his group were making at the moment (some bat boxes for Braywick Plant Nurseries in Maidenhead). Then Marcus gave a practical demonstration on using the combination drill, which both MPs had a go at using themselves. Things then got a little competitive with both MPs asking for Marcus to grade them for their work!
Our CEO, Jeremy Hay, also got the chance to talk to both MPs about the work we do, as well as social care in Bucks and the difficulties with funding we are facing. He said: “My concerns about the current state of our social care and cuts in funding are well known. It was great to be able to talk honestly about these concerns with Minister Kinnock and Emma Reynolds MP, who were both extremely receptive and interested to hear the real impact central decision making has on families, charities and social care providers.”
During the visit, our members did a great job. Marcus showcased the skills he has learnt and received a comment from Emma Reynolds on how great he would be at teaching (he really would be). Jay was funny and engaging, and Minister Kinnock commented that he should enter into the world of stand up with all the jokes he made (we couldn’t agree more).
Lewis talked confidently in his interview about how Talkback had helped with his confidence and mental health and how he had made friends. Please take a moment to watch this lovely video of the visit, it is quite emotional for those of us who have known Lewis for some time.
It’s not often that Talkback gets such important visitors and to receive two at once, was really very special. We would like to thank the Department of Health and Social Care for making this visit possible.
