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HEART OF THE COMMUNITY
The Centre has been up and running since 1999 when we opened in a small room over the florists in the High Street Maldon. Since that time we have carried out all the administrative work for MERA and have offered services and support to all Moat residents in the East Region creating links with Maldon District Council and many other local support services. All our work is carried out by volunteers. From one typewriter and some seriously second hand furniture we have progressed over the years to the office in the Kings Head Centre with 5 computers and office equipment to cover the majority of office services. In addition, we have extended our services to all residents and businesses in the Maldon District. The Centre was nominated for this award by one of our regular customers, Mr. Ray Knight of the Maldon & District Constitutional Club and, thanks to him and many of our supporters who voted for us, achieved third place for our work in the community. The event, held at Stock Brook Country Club was thoroughly enjoyable; the food was plentiful and delicious and the service second to none. I cannot tell you how proud we were to be included in this event. The number of people who are involved in voluntary services is quite amazing and it opened our eyes to all the good work being carried out by so many unsung heroes.
It only remains for me to say a very big Thank You and heartfelt congratulations to all our volunteers who have been so faithful over the years. THANKS!! – PAM CREWES
MILEAGE ALLOWANCES As you will know from previous reports, the Resident Forum have been discussing the matter of mileage allowances with Moat for the past year. The allowance has not been changed since 1994 and we have found that many residents who give their time are now finding themselves out of pocket. Moat have always maintained that residents taking part in the general involvement activities would be properly re-imbursed - hence our discussions. After many refusals and delays Moat have now agreed to adjust the allowance in line with the recent government ruling regarding taxation of expenses. They have sent us the following statement: “Following the work we have done to look at actual mileage expenses for residents, we have amended the rates that apply as set out below. Although we are convinced that mileage related expenses are adequately covered where residents drive high mileages each year, we have been concerned to ensure that residents who do very low mileages are not disadvantaged due to one off costs that they may incur as a result of working with Moat. The concerns raised by residents have very helpfully highlighted the amount of travel that people who give their time to help Moat improve its service are currently undertaking. We are very keen to reduce travel time and expense for our residents and wish to make volunteering easier for anyone who would like to get involved. We intend to work with residents over the coming months to reduce the number of meetings held centrally and make better use of phones and email as well as face to face contact and meetings in a local environment. Resident Volunteers - up to 5000 miles at 45ppm (Note: an additional 5ppm may be charged if carrying an additional We will adjust the expenses claim form to reflect the new rates, which will be effective immediately.” We are very grateful for all the work and effort put in by the Resident Forum on this issue. Needless to say, representatives from MERA were very active in the negotiations. Once again we have proved that if our cause is just, we can change things - even if it does sometimes become a lengthy process.
SITUATIONS VACANT Volunteer wanted to help maintain our IT systems: We are
MERA SECRETARY As our current Secretary is unable to continue in post, we are seeking a volunteer to take her place. If you feel you can help and are prepared to give up a little of your time, please contact Pam Crewes at the Resource Centre - 01621 856438
THE FUTURE For many months, we have been working with Tim Brooks (MOAT's Area Business Manager for the East Region) trying to secure future funding for the Resource Centre. Having previously submitted a detailed Business Plan, we met with Tim on 23rd August and are delighted to announce that he confirmed that MOAT would be funding our basic expenses (rent, rates, electricity and telephone) for 2012/13 and would give us every assistance in raising further funds from other sources to not only enable us to maintain our current level of services but to expand them. Our volunteers have been working since 1999 to provide this service to residents and to the community in general. Needless to say, we are some As always, we will keep you updated with our progress, but our first priority has to be to enlist the help of more volunteers without whom we cannot hope to meet future needs.
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If you have any news you wish to share with residents - email us
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looking for a volunteer to help maintain our SoHo Network and related equipment. If you think you can help, please apply in writing to Barry Richardson, MERA Resource Centre, Shop 8 Kings Head Centre, 38 High Street, Maldon, Essex CM9 5PN
what long in the tooth and really need an infusion of younger blood. Could you consider being part of the team? Even a few hours can make all the difference.