This week we were joined by Mark Winfield from the Rotary Club of Rushden who came to talk to the club about The Calvert Trust and how Rotary District 1070 works with them to provide disabled individuals with a potentially life-changing experience.
The Calvert Trust charity was formed in the 1970’s to support people with disabilities. It runs 3 “Outdoor Adventure” centres in the UK, specifically designed to allow disabled individuals to challenge themselves and build confidence by focusing, not on what they can’t do, but what they can do.
Activities include walking, cycling and hand biking, rock climbing and abseiling, riding, carriage driving, swimming, sailing, archery and more. Everything is tailored to allow safe participation by as many people as possible.
The stay is designed to help individuals gain confidence in their abilities, as well as practice social skills and develop friendships.
Sometimes individuals who would benefit from a stay with the Calvert Trust are prevented from doing so due to financial constraints, travel considerations, lack of will or confidence, or the understandable concerns of a protective parent or guardian.
Since 1995, District 1070 has sought to identify such individuals and facilitate their stay by funding their place (£800), providing transport to the Lake District site, and seeking to address the concerns of both the participant and guardians where necessary.
Having joined District 1070 during a reorganisation a few years ago, we are still learning about the projects we can now get involved in. The Club thanks Mark for coming a long way to join us and deliver an excellent talk. Mark’s passion for the project makes him an extremely effective advocate.