​
Projects in Salisbury Diocese
Members of Mothers' Union express their commitment to our objectives through project work in a number of ways:
-
Alongside the work with families within their own churches and church schools
-
Participating with other charities with similar aims and where we can bring specific skills and resources
-
Initiating new projects as identified by members as they 'listen' to their community and to God.
Away From It All Holidays
We believe that a time of refreshment as a family can be a first step to healing relationships and restoring a sense of direction.
Members fundraise to send up to 25 families recommended by clergy, doctors, social workers and other professionals for a family holiday in an hotel - Sidholme Hotel in Sidmouth, Devon.
Members and friends give their time as volunteers to entertain and support our guests. The stories of transformation are a wonderful encouragement to everyone. Contact Mothers' Union Office for booking details.
We always welcome donations towards this costly but valuable project.
Virtual Baby
The Virtual Baby project sees members taking sophisticated computerised 'babies' into schools. Young people experience the needs of caring for a baby for a weekend followed by discussion about parenting choices. Part of our vision is to form stronger links between school, church and community. Members equip and maintain the babies for the programme as well as delivering the lessons with the young people. We welcome enquires from schools and churches with interested groups of volunteer wishing to take part in this programme
Contact our Development Coordinator: Joanne Triffitt pdo.mothersunion@yahoo.co.uk
We have 10 babies busy all year round spending a weekend with novice 14 year-old parents. Eight schools and academies have a rolling programme to receive the babies halping the young people to understand the role of a parent and the needs of a baby. Young poeple in youth groups and church groups have alos participated in the project. Three new schools are currently negotiating to be included in the programme.
We invite volunteers from churches to share this work and build links with your local school community.
Away From It All Caravan
Away from it all and everyone else as a family can be very special.
We have a caravan at Rockley Park (http://www.rockleypark.co.uk/), a site with marvellous facilities for all the family. The caravan is equipped, cleaned and prepared by members for guests each week.
Generally guests are referred to us by agencies and church leaders or members and are asked to pay what is a very reasonable fees for this site. Members fundraise for the balance and are able to pay for short breaks themselves to help fund this project.
Leave a message on 07981743627 if you wish to inquire about the caravan
Refuges
Many people, mostly women and children, are affected by domestic violence in our communities. A number of safe houses exist across the diocese. Members seek to provide the personal and recreational items needed by those seeking refuge from their situations throughout the year and at Christmas. We are able, by special arrangement, to raise funds for one city refuge as well. Where appropriate members will be involved in the communities offering parenting and other life skills support.
Items required by Salisbury Refuge
Ladies and children's underwear
Night wear and dressing gowns
Umbrellas
Household cleaning items
Vouchers and Store Cards for Christmas Gifts
Please consider that thse families have suffered enough and buy new items
Yoiletries are not currently required - there are enough.