A Brief History of
THE FRIENDS OF WYNDHAM HOUSE SURGERY
Formation
Frank Varley of Stoke Canon created “The Friends” in September 1991, as a way of saying ”thank you” to the doctors, nurses and team of the practice. He brought considerable business skill with him, and his burning enthusiasm inspired the committee to move from small beginnings to real success.
The original steering committee consisted of Frank Varley (Chairman), Peter Hambleton (Vice Chairman), Philip Avery (Treasurer) and Sheila Cameron (Secretary). Sylvia Viner of Stoke Canon, Jean Grimwood of Rewe and Frances Melleish of Brampford Speke also formed part of the committee, which had a proper constitution, deed of covenant and VAT exemption, so that items could be purchased tax free for the surgery.
Fund Raising
The friends own “300 Club” and stalls at the annual Silverton Street Market were the main bastions of fundraising for many years, along with several very generous gifts and legacies from grateful patients. Following receipt of a very generous legacy from the late Leslie Burdon of Silverton (shared with four other charities) the Friends were able to ease up on the fundraising front and concentrate on funding major projects for the surgery, benefiting both patients and the practice itself.
How we’ve helped
The Friends have purchased, and provided regular servicing, of numerous items of valuable equipment for the surgery not covered by NHS resources. Another major contribution has been a computer linked telephone system for Wyndham House.
The Friends have also funded a remarkably successful “Elderly Project” offering a full health, medication, social and risk assessment for older patients. The most recent development has enabled the setting up of a modern and comprehensive practice website with a facility to E Mail repeat prescriptions, a variety of leaflets and health information and links to other useful websites.
The future
From modest beginnings, and with great support from the patients, the Friends have become a real asset to the practice. With more projects in the pipeline, and a sound financial base, Frank Varley’s original vision of real help has become a reality, which we can truly build on, taking great delight in the process.
Got an idea?
The Friends have four regular meetings a year, including the AGM, and are always open to suggestions and ideas from those they wish to help. Please contact (or leave a message for) Andi Barnes (Secretary) at Wyndham House if you have anything you would like to be considered.
STOP PRESS:
AGM, The Lamb Inn Shed, Silverton, Tuesday M ay 24, 2005th June 2006 at 7.30pm. All welcome. Buffet provided. Please come along and support us.
