DISABILITY
Since
1974 CREST has provided a weekly opportunity for approximately 75 older
people with a disability to be part of a caring community. The needs of
older members of our community have always been a priority in the life of
CREST. For many, the effects of disability and illness result in an extremely
limited and restricted lifestyle. CREST is concerned to provide access to
stimulation, recreation, and community for many of these people in a really
positive way that shows that they are valued members of the society with
so much to contribute.
WHAT DOES CREST PROVIDE?
In
partnership with London and Quadrant Housing Association and the London
Borough of Waltham Forest, CREST provides three full-day groups for approximately
forty weeks in a year which provide arts and crafts activities, healthy
living and benefits advice, a cooked meal, an opportunity to socialise and
educational stimulation. Those benefiting are vulnerable people, many of
whom have little or no opportunity to meet others. Transport to and from
our three venues is provided by London Borough of Waltham Forest tail lift
vehicles for those unable to use public transport. A waiting list usually
applies and the expectation is that, once someone has accepted a seat, they
will attend every week unless ill or attending hospital. A team of trustworthy
and experienced volunteers act as escorts on the tail-lift ambulances. Once
at the centre, they also provide a warm welcome, a cup of tea/coffee, and
a chat. We share news and notices before settling down for the afternoon
speaker slot. We provide an interesting and varied programmes maybe travelling
around the world with slide shows and talks or hearing about organisations
(both local and national), arts and crafts, quizzes, armchair exercise and
much more. Occasional trips are organised to local places of interest. Members
enjoy a full day outing during August each year. Various "Tea Parties" and
"Fish and Chip Lunches" as well as Christmas Dinner Celebrations, take place
during the year.