We probably don’t think often enough about how much we rely on our local charities.
We see them fundraising, organising events and asking for support, but it is easy to forget just how important they are until we see their work for ourselves, or someone close to us needs their help.
This week, I’ve been reminded of that twice, through two very different charities: Vranch House and Sidmouth Hospice at Home.
I visited Vranch House in Exeter this week with Donna Manson, CEO of Devon County Council, Jo Siney, who works in Family Help Partnerships and Disabled Children, and our Council Leader, Cllr Julian Brazil.
We were shown around by Chief Executive Kate Moss, who gave us an insight into the work they do supporting children with physical disabilities and complex needs.
It was inspiring to see the dedication of the staff and the specialist support they provide to help children learn, develop and become as independent as possible.
Every child deserves the chance to reach their potential, but some need a level of expertise and support that goes well beyond what most of us ever see.
Organisations like Vranch House make such a difference to children and their families.
Their work is a reminder of why it matters that we have specialist services available for those who need them, and why we must recognise and support the charities that provide them.
My second reminder was much closer to home.
Today, I attended the funeral of my neighbour, who was cared for by Sidmouth Hospice at Home.
It is difficult to put into words how important this service is to our community.
Being seriously ill is hard enough, both for the person and for those who love them.
Having skilled, compassionate people who can provide care in the familiar surroundings of home can make an enormous difference at such a difficult time.
Sidmouth Hospice at Home supports people with life-limiting illnesses, as well as their families and carers.
Its nurses provide care free of charge, but delivering that service depends on the generosity of our community.
Fundraising, donations, legacies and volunteers all play their part in keeping it going.
We never know when we or someone we love might need the support of a charity like this.
That is why I feel so strongly about recognising the work they do, not just when we need them, but all the time.
Vranch House and Sidmouth Hospice at Home work in very different ways, but both offer something that matters enormously: support, care and the knowledge that people are there when you need them.
We are incredibly fortunate to have charities like these in Devon and in our own community.
Please support them wherever you can.
You never know when their work might make a difference to someone you love.
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