Monday 29th March 2021 is our first birthday and though on the one hand it is difficult to get our heads around the fact that we have been affected by the pandemic for more than a year now, there is also much to celebrate. 

Though the third lockdown continues we are hopeful that Boris’ roadmap to freedom will become a reality and this hope fills us with desire to begin to think about how the hub will evolve so as to continue to support the community in a post Covid world.

The first hub annual general meeting will take place on 29th April 2021 at 7pm. All hub members and trustees are invited to attend and will receive an email with invite instructions and a meeting agenda. If you would like to become a member of the hub, please email ettingtonhub@gmail.com. If you would like to stand for election as a trustee and require some more information, please contact Nikki.

The hub is looking for the following roles to be filled.

Hub Manager - oversees the running of the hub alongside the Hub Coordinator, works with the trustees to make and implement decisions and changes, write the newsletter, check in with clients and volunteers. Approximately 3-5 hrs/week, mobile phone provided.

Outside Agency Liaison Officer - signposts to outside agencies, those in need of support beyond the hub. Involves issuing foodbank vouchers, communicating with external agencies and advocating on behalf of clients.

Trustee position- the first hub AGM will be taking place on 29th April 2021 and this is the place to vote in the new board of trustees for 2021/2022. We require a board willing and able to oversee the evolution of the hub from a covid response hub to a post covid community hub.

If you are interested in any of these opportunities, please email Nikki.

PPE for Hub Volunteers

If you require PPE please contact Nikki to arrange collection.

Evolving the Hub - Have Your Say!

For the time being the hub will continue to provide shopping and prescription support to all who require it and we envisage this need continuing post Covid as individuals and families face the usual adversities of life. However, we know that as we emerge from this enforced hibernation other needs will arise and so we are seeking your views on what your hub can contribute to your community.

• Some ideas already being discussed include
• Street representatives - trusted individuals who support their immediate neighbours and refer those in need of support to the hub.
• Welcome to the village packs - for all those arriving into the village, a pack containing essential info.
• Community Hub coffee mornings - a space to come and enjoy a hot drink and maybe meet others we do not yet know. Also offers the opportunity to invite local speakers on issues that affect us.
• Walking companions - a move from telephone befriending to walking friends. Helps alleviate loneliness and boosts mental and physical health.

These are just some of the possibilities which may have peaked your interests and you may have other ideas too. We will be inviting our volunteers, clients and other community members to complete a questionnaire which will inform how we move forward.  Please do take the time to complete it when it arrives.

Hub Data as of 25th March 2021