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Peak fundraisers needed
TWO TIRELESS High Peak charity workers have been honoured with long-service awards.
Jean Potts and Audrey Bickerton have been staunch supporters of the National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (NSPCC) in the New Mills area for over 30 years.
Julia Stewart, the charity's Community Fundraising Manager, said: "During this time, Jean and Audrey have probably helped raise thousands of pounds for the NSPCC through organising fundraising events, coffee mornings, social gatherings – their support has been invaluable.
"We do rely on volunteer fundraising and donations for 85 per cent of our income, so fundraising in the community is really important in terms of supporting our services and raising awareness of what we do."
And now more than ever, with members of the charity's Chapel-en-le-Frith and Chinley branch stepping down, there is a need for new blood to come forward, Ms Stewart explained.
"We are very thin on the ground in the High Peak area at the moment, in terms of fundraisers," she added.
"Without local representation, the NSPCC cannot spread the word about child protection and raise the money we need, so it is vitally important that new people come forward.
"The income helps to support the NSPCC helpline and the NSPCC Childline, which is a free, confidential helpline for children and young people."
Last year, the NSPCC Helpline received over 1,000 calls from Derbyshire and is there 24 hours a day for adults to call if they are concerned about the welfare of a child who may be at risk. On average one child dies each week as a result of child abuse. These children are usually under five years old and rely on others to answer their cry for help.
Locally based ChildLine counsellors spoke to 9,243 children about a range of issues from bullying to abuse. Three hundred calls came from the High Peak area but this is only 20 per cent of the true number of children who make contact. Sadly one out of three calls from children and young people can not be answered as there are not enough counsellors.
• To get involved with the NSPCC, contact Julia on 0114 274 7679 or email jstewart2@nspcc.org.uk.
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Weather for Buxton
Tuesday 07 February 2012
Today
Cloudy
Temperature: -6 C to 2 C
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