Someone was asked by Social Services to run a pilot scheme to see if it was feasible to set up separate sessions. I was put forward as I knew the Asians in the area. Most of them had been at the Mainstream school where I work. So we started working together to see what we could do. We found a Church room which was close enough to everyone and we booked it for a 8 week trail to see how it went. Much to our surprise it was hugely successful.

The next step was to find a permanent place as the trial proved that it was a much needed service. We had heard of Gladstone Community Association (Gladca) and we approached them to see if they could help out. At the time the building was going to be completely refurbished so they advised us to ask them again when all the alterations had been completed. We told them we were hoping to have Tuesday afternoons (1-3 pm). Gladca assured us that we would still be able to have that time.

18 months later all the alterations were completed. Through Social Services working with Cambridgeshire Deaf Association (CDA) on some issues in Peterborough, it was decided that Gladca would come under the wing of CDA. So on 8th July 1999.  I was pleased to see so many Deaf Asians at the opening which was marked with a buffet.

Every session was well attended. However, due to many changes that happened at the time we lost all the support that we had and it was decided, much to everyone's disappointment, to close down the group until CDA obtained a new Community Development Worker. This closure was only temporary as Jamie took over the job and he felt strongly that it should carry on. So on Tuesday 1st February 2000 we started up again. The delight on people's face proved that it had been missed by everyone. Elaine Bridges was also taken on to help with telephone calls, letter writing and general Advocacy.

In January 2001 the Mayor and Mayoress of Peterborough paid us a visit. The festival of Eid was on at the same time as New Year, which only happens roughly every 30 years. The staff who work at Gladca were also invited along for the occassion. The Mayor and Mayoress were impressed and later invited us to the Mayor's Parlour at the Town Hall for coffee and told us about the history of Peterborough - the pictures of past Mayors were very impressive.

Trips out are always arranged. Two women were taken to visit the Millennium Dome, separately from the one organised by CDA which they could not attend as they were expecting babies at the time! We have also been to Madame Tussaud's in London. Two of the Lads were taken to Trent Bridge to watch the England against Australia 3rd Test cricket match. We have also tried to get tickets for Wimbledon but were too late. We will try again in plenty of time for next year! We enjoyed a 'Late New Year' lunch at the Balti Palace in Peterborough. We also had a ride on the London Eye and a walk across the Millennium Bridge which was, I am pleased to say, very firm and did not wobble once!

Occasionally we have Guest Speakers - Mr Shabbir is well liked and is always popular. His talks on Cultural Issues are well attended; it is up to us which topics are discussed. A nurse from the well-woman clinic has given a talk as well as the Community Police who gave us advice on how to be safe at all times.

The Drop-In service is now established. Local schools contact us of anything is needed to explain things to the children. There is now a crèche on the premises and is a valuable learning tool for the children to pick up skills in mixing with other children.

If you need any further information contact us on Tuesdays between 1-3 pm on (Voice) 01733 566343 or (Fax) 01733 558821 or e-mail gladca@cambsdeaf.org

Ann

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