Islington News: Kevin Brennan

Publications by New Journal Enterprises

Home

Archive

Competition

Islington Tribune - by TOM FOOT
Published: 30 January 2009

Kevin Brennan (left) is pictured with (from left) Time Bank manager John Garcez, volunteer Yolanda Flores, Time Bank manager Jonies Henry and Emily Thornberry MP.

Time Bank: Charities minister learns how St Luke’s bids to crack the credit crunch

CHARITIES minister Kevin Brennan dabbled in a spot of painting on a visit to St Luke’s Community Centre in Finsbury on Tuesday.
Mr Brennan, whose official title is Minister for the Third Sector, joined Finsbury South MP Emily Thornberry on a tour to learn more about the centre’s role in Islington.
They met local residents in a painting class and spoke to volunteers for the St Luke’s Time Bank, where residents are encouraged to exchange their time and skills.
St Luke’s chief executive Martyn Craddock briefed Mr Brennan on the centre’s work and explained how they were addressing the problems faced by residents affected by the economic downturn.
Mr Craddock said: “St Luke’s is proud of its swift response to the hardships people are facing, and the minister was particularly interested in our event Cracking the Credit Crunch held last November.”
He added: “St Luke’s, and organisations like it, provide a vital link between local people and service providers. The charity has a unique presence in the community, and its building is prominent and well known. St Luke’s is a busy, friendly, non-institutional organisation that helps increase the quality of life for local people. The downturn is seeing an increase in demand for our services and we are responding with new approaches, but these need funding.”
Ms Thornberry said: “For many years St Luke’s has been at the heart of the community in this part of Finsbury. It’s great to see their services for older residents are going strong, and that they are also offering new ways for everyone in the local community to get involved.”

Comment on this article.
(You must supply your full name and email address for your comment to be published)

Name:

Email:

Comment: