Charity Commission Chair visits Woody’s Lodge: Celebrating our charitable spirit & unwavering support for Welsh Veterans

Woody’s Lodge was delighted to welcome Orlando Fraser, Chair of the Charity Commission, on June 28, 2023. During his visit, Fraser expressed deep admiration for the dedication and significant impact of charities operating in Caerphilly and the wider areas of Wales. Accompanying him on this visit to South Wales were Jane Hutt, Minister for Social Justice, and Pippa Britton OBE, Charity Commission Wales Board Member. Fraser had the privilege of witnessing firsthand the remarkable work being carried out by our Veterans’ Charity and another outstanding Welsh organisation named Sense Cymru, which provides invaluable support to individuals with complex disabilities.

The Charity Commission is responsible for registering and regulating charities in England and Wales, ensuring that the public can confidently support these causes. 

Sense Cymru: Empowering lives with complex disabilities

The delegation first visited Sense Cymru’s hub in Caerphilly, where they interacted with both the staff and beneficiaries. Discussions with the charity’s leadership team shed light on recent achievements and the challenges faced not only by Sense Cymru but also by the broader charitable sector.

The Sense Cymru hub was established to support individuals with complex disabilities across South Wales. The hub’s day services are designed to build new skills, boost confidence, and enhance communication abilities. Beneficiaries can partake in an array of activities, including fitness programmes, arts and crafts, musical theatre, and even cookery classes.

A charitable spirit that permeates Wales

Fraser expressed his delight at the opportunity to witness the vital work carried out by the charities under their regulation. He extended his gratitude to the trustees, staff, volunteers, and beneficiaries he had the privilege of meeting, acknowledging the incredible charitable spirit that permeates Wales.

Empowered to experience the world

Jane Hutt, Minister for Social Justice, enjoyed visiting Sense Cymru and learning more about their work with individuals with multi-sensory impairments. She emphasised the vital role such work plays in supporting individuals and families, empowering them to experience the world and fulfil their potential.

Commitment to fulfilling lives

Simon Carnell, Head of Operations at Sense Cymru, welcomed the Charity Commission to Sense Hub Caerphilly. He expressed that the visit provided an opportunity to showcase the incredible work of their staff in supporting individuals with complex disabilities. Carnell highlighted the challenges faced by disabled people and their families, underscoring the charity’s unwavering commitment to empowering them to lead fulfilling lives.

Charity Commission Chair visits Woody’s Lodge

Later in the day, the Chair visited our Veteran’s charity. He was able to meet with staff and trustees to hear about how our charity operates before seeing some of our services first-hand.

Sian Woodland, Co-Founder and Deputy CEO of Woody’s Lodge, said:

“It is with great pleasure that we welcome a visit from Orlando Fraser KC, Chair of the Charity Commission for England and Wales. We are proud of the work that we do in helping veterans of the Armed Forces and Emergency Services receive the help and support they need and deserve. 

“We also provide a warm, welcoming and stimulating social environment where veterans and their families can meet and feel part of the wider veteran’s community. We have won several awards for our work and were pleased to introduce Mr Fraser to our team, and some of the veterans that we support here at Woody’s Lodge.”

Charitable spirit thriving in Wales

The recent visit of Orlando Fraser to Woody’s Lodge and Sense Cymru showcased the tremendous impact of our work in supporting local communities. From empowering individuals with complex disabilities at Sense Cymru to providing a nurturing space for Veterans at Woody’s Lodge, we are proud to exemplify the remarkable charitable spirit thriving in Wales. As the Charity Commission continues to advocate for the well-being of charitable causes, the public can confidently support vital initiatives making a positive difference in the lives of many.

Proudly Welsh Veterans Charity 

Woody’s Lodge is a proudly Welsh Veterans’ charity that supports Veterans, Reservists, ex-members of the Emergency Services, and their families through financial, psychological, physical, and emotional assistance. We are inspired by those who once served our beautiful country and show our appreciation by helping them reintegrate back into their communities after distressing experiences. 

Looking for veteran support services in Wales? Our team at Woody’s Lodge is here to help. And don’t forget to stay updated with the latest events, news, and insider happenings by subscribing to our newsletter.You can show your support for Woody’s Lodge by making a donation directly on our website or through our fundraising page for our upcoming charity cycle.