Stephen Metcalfe, MP for South Basildon & East Thurrock, has visited the Papworth Trust in Bradbury House, Basildon, to meet service users and learn how the Trust works to support disabled people's equality, choice, and independence.
On Friday 10 November, Stephen visited the excellent Papworth Trust in Basildon – a local organisation providing support to those with a variety of physical and learning disabilities. The 106-year-old Trust works with employers and housebuilders to ensure that its customers can be supported in their wellbeing and fulfil their potential.
During the visit, Stephen observed a two-minute silence with customers and volunteers. One customer, Billie-Jean Stewart, had written a moving poem entitled “I am a poppy” which was read aloud by another customer, Carmen. (A copy of the poem can be found below.)
Stephen Metcalfe said: “It was a great pleasure to have the opportunity to visit Papworth Trust again and to meet the service users who value so highly the opportunities which it provides.
The Trust does tremendous work in supporting people with physical and learning disabilities giving them more confidence in dealing with the world around them. The Act of Remembrance was particularly poignant, and it is so important that we all take the time during our busy lives to think about the servicemen and women who been lost through conflict.
I was also pleased to be questioned by them about my role as a Member of Parliament and what that entails. It was wonderful to see them so engaged and interested in the local community.
Maggie Blackburn and the staff at the Trust do excellent work in supporting disabled people and their families and I am so grateful to them for taking their time to help.”
“I am a poppy” by Billie-Jean Stewart
I am a poppy.
I am a symbol you can share and copy.
I am millions of memories,
Of men who are remembered now in documentaries.
I am a symbol of war,
A message of peace and hope for what the future has in store.
I am a poppy to remember every man,
When the war tore apart their every plan.
I am a poppy to remember every husband and son,
And those who never had the chance to find the one.
I am a simply poppy,
That you can share and copy.
Promoted by Stephen Metcalfe of 2 Orsett Business Centre, Stanford Road, Grays, RM16 3BX.
