I was 30 when Mrs Thatcher came to power, and so I closely observed all her years in Government. She was clearly a great political leader and Prime Minister, and a politician of both principles (free market, individual responsibility, opposition to Communism, the unions, the IRA, Euroskepticism, defence of the realm - Falklands etc) and of conviction – the forceful speech and manner. However she was also someone who divided opinion dramatically , even now after her death, as many recall the continuing consequences of the downside of many of her economic, financial and industrial policies. But history is always written by the winners, and she definitely won.
It’s been a busy week with the Local Prevention Framework grant process to the fore – there’s only until 3 May to get your bid in. We have been retained by SCC to promote the scheme and have sent out two briefing notes so far to 300 organisations to promote it, and had meetings about it. I’ve also discussed Safeguarding with a SCC colleague brought in to address wider issues. I do have some concerns about policy and practice as so much has changed of late.
We had to postpone this week’s workshop on self-employment/social enterprise because of lack of take-up, but I met with a Director at Epsom BC who wants us to run a course for him in September, and it may well be that the best way forward is to link to Colleges, and other local authorities.
We interviewed to recruit a young apprentice to support us in the office but have been unable to appoint and so are re- advertising. It is a great opportunity to learn on the job, gain skills and get a Level3 (A –level) award.
We have good news about COMMUNILAB and hope to have a significant national as main corporate sponsor – more later.
The latest edition of Surrey Youth News is out with our new brand , which has been well received thus far. Had a great telephone conversation with someone who might be brilliant as the key person organising the start-up of the social enterprise – at the moment it feels like my third job (after SYF, and development adviser to the Consortium- for whom I have been working on a mental health bid this week. SO..busy!
Central heating pump at home broke down yesterday , so no hot water/heating- in British Gas we trust today - so I went to bed early and watched AC/DC “Live from the River Plate” on my mobile in bed “…..Those about to Rock salute you!”
Have fun – I always do!
Mike
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