Strictly Worcestershire to support mental health initiatives

Annual dance spectacular Strictly Worcestershire has named its two charities for 2019.

Proceeds from the black tie event, which will be held at the Chateau Impney in Droitwich Spa on May 23, will support mental health initiatives at Worcester Community Trust and St Paul’s Hostel.

Julia Williams, vice-chairman of event organisers Worcestershire Ambassadors and the show’s executive producer, said: “We had many strong applications from charities in the county but WCT and St Paul’s Hostel stood out and we’re looking forward to working closely with both of them to promote the excellent work they do.”   

Worcester Community Trust chief executive Faith Sanderson said: “We want to thank everyone taking part in this fantastic event. The funding will go a long way in supporting our work with thousands of young people and adults.

“Demand for our services has increased hugely over the last 12 months and this year we are growing our mental health support by providing a domestic abuse ‘Survivors Network’, youth mentoring and young ambassador training, more community connector sessions, targeted support sessions and activities for adults, as well as exciting community events.”

Felicity James, skills development and community engagement manager at St Paul’s Hostel, said: “We are absolutely delighted to have been chosen as one of the two charities of the year. This gives us the platform to explain how mental health is a major cause of chronic homelessness and is a fantastic opportunity to raise awareness.”

Eight contestant couples from across Worcestershire will be bidding to lift the prized glitterball trophy and all are encouraging family, friends and business contacts to support their chosen county-based charities via JustGiving.

Taking part are Elaine and Stuart Watt, who are supporting St Paul’s Hostel, Grace Walton and Jack Tingle, whose charity is Headway Worcestershire, Worcestershire Animal Rescue Shelter supporters Chris and Matleena Haywood and Jess Antley and Stuart Wilkes, who are backing Samaritans Worcester.

Jason and Gaya Barnett are dancing in aid of New Hope Worcester while Ela Kropornicka and Mark Evans are supporting Primrose Hospice in Bromsgrove.   

Completing the line up are Tracy and Tony Lowe and Geoff and Sue Adams, who are both rooting for Acorns Children’s Hospice.

Event partners are drp, Andrew Grant, Lowe’s Solicitors and Greenworks Solutions. 

Tables and individual tickets for the show are available via the event’s website: http://strictlyworcestershire.co.uk/