The Jenner Centre – DD9 Connections Issue No 15

Well,  we’re still here at 24 St. David Street!  Our application to rent the Common Good property at 13 Swan Street has gone out for public consultation which has to happen under the Community Empowerment Act 2015.   Any representation can be made  to Angus Council in writing with your name and address to: CommEngagement@angus.gov.uk by 16th May and all will be published.  (Oddly in the Public Notice there is no way for anyone to find out what is in our application.)

These premises are much larger and all areas are more accessible than we have at present but we will need to make some improvements and changes to make the best use of the space such as heating and flexible partitions to allow for 1 to 1 sessions, small or larger groups.  Although awkward access to toilets has not presented problems in the past 4 years, having a toilet on the ground floor will be a relief to all.

You’ll see an advert in this issue for “Heel ‘n’ Toe Footcare”.  Linsay will be offering services in addition to those Joyce and Wanda offer with Jenner Footcare.  Linsay normally offers home visits but she will be made very welcome to have a base with us.

Much of what we do is driven by feedback from local folk.  When we set up the Jenner Centre we envisaged a drop-in facility to offer support to those affected by long-term conditions.  Although folk need and appreciate the clinical care which they receive further afield they said they would also appreciate support, a listening ear and a cuppae close to home.  Unfortunately, Covid-19 got in the way of that but we are revisiting those plans with the prospect of bigger and better accommodation.

From surveys and simply listening to people other ideas have been suggested.  While we’ve had to wait for new premises other groups have been able to meet some of these ideas but there are still many and varied services there to be developed.  Complementary therapies/massage; autism support; mental health services; more for the disabled; support and activities for all ages, especially those experiencing isolation and loneliness are some ideas that have been suggested.

The Jenner Centre is your facility and we’d really like to hear your ideas about developing and strengthening its way forward.  We look forward to hearing from you.

Moira Robertson

Trustee