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Arrangements are now being made to meet with all the charities at the end of October, to explain the changes for next year. We are always making improvements but after the extensive work to insulate the Bluebell Barn and extend the kitchen over the past two years, the changes for 2025 will be minor by comparison.
Next year we expect to again have 25 different charities, so with an average of say 20 volunteers per charity to cover the different roles, ensuring you have a memorable visit means much information must be passed on to the various individuals. We have in the past relied on their respective Supervisors, who are given the various detailed lists (apparently referred to out of my earshot as ‘John’s dreaded Guidelines’!) These include what is expected from the Meeters and Greeters, those in the Gate House, how food is served in the Bluebell Barn and most importantly how everything should be kept clean.
Those volunteers who come year on year quickly remember, but for those helping for the first time, we are introducing a new arrangement, which hopefully will take some of the pressure off the Supervisors who are such key individuals. We will prepare concise instructions, situated near each machine to be used or where the volunteer is on duty. These will be laminated, clearly written and hopefully welcomed, but introducing new ideas can have a mixed reception!
In the May and June Newsletters I mentioned how thought was being given to ensure that both Bates Green Garden, the legacy of my wife Carolyn, and my own legacy of the Bluebell Walk, will continue for future generations. If, as is my wish, we create ‘The Arlington Bluebell Charitable Trust’, then it means I must ensure the long-term finances stack up, which in these uncertain times is easier said than done! I will update you on progress next October, when our management year’s accounts are finalized.
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