Time is running out to stop catastrophic climate change. Our leaders have let us down. But from school children going on strike, to the rise of clean, affordable community energy, millions of people across the world have recognised the need to conserve energy and reduce pollution.  Find out more and sign the petition by following this link: https://tinyurl.com/y9kzxmrw

At the Bournemouth Conference Isobel Smith was installed as President of Soroptimist Great Britain & Ireland for the year from 2019 – 2020.  In her inauguration speech President Isobel outlined her theme for the year “We Stand Up for Women”.  Read Isobel's Welcome Letter here:  https://sigbi.org/members/files/Members-Information.pdf  

Working together with Midland Chase Region, ladies from our clubs are undertaking an independent survey on Specialist Domestic Violence Courts. In 2006 Specialist Domestic Violence Courts were set up around the country and the role of Independent Domestic Violence Adviser.

Working together with Midland Chase Region, club members are undertaking an independent survey on Specialist Domestic Violence Courts. In 2006 Specialist Domestic Violence Courts were set up around the country and the role of Independent Domestic Violence Adviser (a professional supporter for every complainant) was created. Over a decade later cuts to police, CPS and Courts caused us to worry that these specialist courts have been depleted. Nobody watches courts and there is no “OFSTED”. The first survey was carried out by clubs in the Newcastle area with the help of Dame Vera Baird, Victims Commissioner  (who is also a Soroptimist). Thirteen recommendations have been made and the local victims’ hub is leading a multi-agency task force to take action.  Those taking part have all attended a two-hour workshop to help us understand the court process and to learn about the observations that need to

On March 3rd we are holding the Programme Action Forum which we hope that as many of you as possible will be able to attend. The theme for the morning will centre around the Sustainable Development Goals of eradicating hunger and preserving the environment.The speakers are; Steve Thomson who is the Operations Director for  Garden Organic which is the leading organic gardening charity in Europe. They run a range of programmes and activities to get people growing and gardening organically. Working with individuals, in schools and communities, they bring their expert knowledge and skills to promote the health and wellbeing benefits of gardening and growing, which include it being a good form of exercise, a stimulus to a better diet, a way to improve mental health and wellbeing and a tool for social interaction and behavioural change. Steve is currently responsible for the organisation’s Horticulture, Commercial and Education programmes.

As you are aware from previous notifications, several members of the Region are attending the joint Northern and Southern Conference in Killarney in May. If any of you would still like details of the Conference or accommodation, please contact President Jan or Patricia Weinbren, the MAR website Manager on paweinbren@btinternet.com