In August the CEO, Trustees and staff team welcomed the Reverend Lady Lisvane, High Sheriff of Herefordshire and her husband, Robert Lisvane, The Lord Lisvane KCB DL, to the centre.

Following a presentation about the origins and history of the Centre, the management team spoke about their services and provision to the Bromyard community and its members.  Jan Pearce-Higgins, Jeanie Falconer and Sarah Eardley then gave their visitors a tour of all the departments and activities and ended their visit with coffee and cakes at Oscar’s café.

Everyone felt very honoured to receive such a distinguished visitor to the Centre and were delighted with the High Sheriff’s comments after her visit:

“It was a privilege to visit the HOPE Centre recently. I was hugely impressed by the enthusiasm and professionalism of Sarah Eardley, the CEO, and her staff, and by the range of support services which the Centre provides. The theme of my Shrieval Year is tackling loneliness and isolation, and several aspects of the Centre’s work resonate powerfully with this, whether in early years education, developing a sense of self and confidence in the very young, adult learning, or the excellent work of the Contact Centre, which provides a neutral and welcoming space where children can spend time with non-resident family members  — for example following separation or divorce. The HOPE Centre is indeed a beacon of hope for many, and I wish it every success.”

On Friday 4^th August we held our first Bounce and Rhyme session at the library in Bromyard. We were thrilled to see nearly 40 children attend and meet Bookstart Bear (who was really Michaela from the café but don’t tell anyone!). Bounce and Rhyme introduces children to songs and music in a fun way and is led by one of our experienced staff to guide the session.  Children all received a free book and balloon and it was lovely to see so many children and families at the event.

From September these sessions will be running every Friday morning at the Library and we are delighted to be working in partnership with Halo Leisure. We offer families an opportunity to use the Library and join in a sociable and fun group. It’s also a great way of meeting new people if you have just moved to Bromyard and also introduces you to the Hope Centre, located on the Hereford Road, where there is a permanent stay and play zone for children to enjoy every week day. We also have many other groups on at the centre, with ample parking and other great facilities like our Early Years nursery and pre-school. If you would like any further information about us and the groups and activities please ring us on 01885 488495 or email info@hopefamilycentre.org