Dear All,
I normally start these letters reflecting on the year gone by but I’m sure none of us need to be reminded of what a terrible year this has been. 12 months ago, as I sat down to write, I spoke of the excitement of a new decade but now it seems to be a case of “be careful what you wish for” and I am sure we will all be delighted to see the end of 2020! I know that some of you have lost loved ones during the pandemic, and all of us at the Trust send our thoughts and best wishes to you for better times to come. Let us truly hope that 2021 brings medical advances that allow us to reclaim our lives, hug our families and learn to live again.
Karen and Paula are still working from home but have kept everything running smoothly and have been regularly chatting with your visitors, who have kept them informed about your welfare. Contact with other people has been more important than ever this year, and I know that you will want me to pass on your thanks to the Visitors for staying in touch.
2020 saw the launch of www.owenowentrust.org.uk, our new website. Lots of you have been viewing it and, in particular, the history section is proving to be a big hit. If you have any photographs or would like to share some of your memories please call Karen or Paula, or write to them at the usual address, and they can explain how best to do this.
As always, if you are planning any spring jobs around the house, don’t forget that you may be able eligible for help from the Trust. When you apply for a grant, we ask, that you obtain two quotes if possible please. As a reminder, the Trust can help with repairs and renewals, replacement of electrical/white goods and furniture but not with medical expenses (ie glasses and hearing aids), funeral costs, home helps and gardening. Do get in touch with us if you are considering applying and Karen and Paula will be pleased to talk you through the process. Please also remember to send us any changes to your contact details so we can keep in touch.
Despite the gloom of 2020, there have been things to celebrate too. In November, our Trustee Rosie Lochiel Owen (great granddaughter of our founder), and her wife Susie, had a beautiful baby girl, Annie Scout. I am sure you will all join me in congratulating Rosie, Susie and Scout, and wishing them every happiness.
This beautiful photograph should give us all hope for the future.
On that much needed celebratory note may I wish you, and those close to you, a very Merry Christmas and, more than ever, a Happy and Healthy New Year.
Best Wishes
Kay Eggleton, Chairman of the Trustees
Trustees: Kay Eggleton, John Barker, Len Foster, Sue Mitchell, David Owen, Rosie LochielOwen, Liz Stewardson, Alan Turner and Bob Warren