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In the last three weeks, the community associated with Framework came together for two spectacular events – a classical orchestral concert and a church service. These events once again demonstrated the level of interest in our work and the public’s continued support.
On Saturday 18 March, at St Margaret’s Church in Aspley, Nottingham the amateur musicians of the Boots Orchestra gave their Spring concert in aid of Framework.
Following this, on Saturday 1 April, our supporters, service users and members of staff gathered in the beautiful surroundings of Southwell Minster for Framework’s annual Spring Service. The occasion marked the 15th anniversary since the first Framework service took place at the Minster in 2008.
In total, the two events welcomed more than 120 people – many of whom hadn’t come across Framework before and as a result were able to learn more about the organisation. In addition, and as a result of their generosity, more than £1,200 was raised towards our work.
Boots Orchestra concert
The Boots Orchestra played popular works by composers including Beethoven, Binge and Bizet.
One audience member commented:
“It was such an enjoyable evening getting to hear a fantastic local orchestra, and the fact that all ticket proceeds went to such a worthy cause as Framework made it all the better.
“Having heard more about the work of Framework, I take a lot of comfort knowing that the charity is helping so many during these challenging times.”
Watch a short extract from the concert here:
Southwell Minster service
The themes of the service were celebration and reflection – celebrating the successes of our service users, and reflecting on the challenges facing the organisation.
As ever, the contributions of service users and volunteers were not only informative but also highly emotive. The congregation heard from:
Mel Bensley is a resident at Blakeney House, one of Framework’s supported housing services. Mel has been supported by Double Impact’s Academy and Framework’s Individualised Placement Support service New path to employment at our Wellbeing Hub in Nottingham. She is now employed at Double Impact’s Café Sobar in the city centre.
Mel said:
“Without the help of Framework, I would not be standing here today. In fact, I may not even be standing at all.”
Daryl Coulter is a resident at our Russell House supported housing service in Newark. He was assisted by his friend and fellow resident Michael Barrett who read Daryl’s statement about Framework’s support and the positive impact of stable accommodation on his life:
“With Framework’s support, I don’t just have stable accommodation now. Framework have helped me to build my confidence, communicate more effectively, budget efficiently and prepare for the future.
“I am now healthier, happier and sleep well at night. I can see the light at the end of the tunnel.”
Emmanuel Ofori is a volunteer at Framework’s Family Mentors Service who shared the story of his personal growth during his volunteering as well as the opportunities that subsequently arose:
“Since I started volunteering with Framework I have noticed an increase in my self-confidence. Opportunities I never thought I’d have also opened up for me.
“This has helped me to believe in myself and my worth, to engage more with the community and to start volunteering with other projects.”
Among those present were Framework Patron Sir John Peace, Lord Lieutenant of Nottinghamshire, and Tim Strawson, outgoing High Sheriff of Lincolnshire, who has supported Framework throughout his year in office.
Also present were volunteers Peter Brooker and Ian Gillings, representing the Southwell Lions who recently donated £1,000 towards our Building Better Futures capital fundraising appeal.
Tim Strawson and Framework Chief Executive Andrew Redfern
Thank you to the Boots Orchestra and the Southwell Minster for making these two events possible and to all participants and volunteers, and everyone who attended and donated so generously.
