Warrington VIP celebrate community achievement and future ambitions

WARRINGTON VIP recently celebrated community achievement and future ambitions at a special members’ event.

VIP Members, volunteers, supporters and guests of Warrington VIP gathered at a special Thursday Lunch event to hear about the charity’s progress over the past year, celebrate outstanding achievements and recognise the collective efforts that continue to support visually impaired people across the borough.
The event was opened by the Mayor of Warrington, Sagheer Zaman, who welcomed attendees and reaffirmed his support for the charity. During the afternoon, it was announced that the Mayor had agreed to become President of Warrington VIP and act as an ambassador for the organisation, strengthening its links with the wider Warrington community.
Chair of Trustees Geoff Settle provided members with an overview of the charity’s financial position, recent achievements and future challenges. While acknowledging the pressures facing charities nationwide, he highlighted the progress made in strengthening the organisation’s finances, improving facilities and securing additional resources.
Reflecting on the charity’s position, Geoff said:
“For the moment, we are in calmer waters, but we can’t rest on our laurels. More effort, fundraising and savings are required.”
He also spoke candidly about the realities of running a charity in today’s economic climate.
“Life in a charity these days is like being at Blackpool on a roller coaster – up one minute, down the next. It’s frightening and challenging, and we must stay positive.”
A recurring theme throughout the presentation was the importance of teamwork. Geoff praised the efforts of staff, trustees, volunteers, members and supporters whose contributions had helped Warrington VIP navigate a challenging period.
Particular recognition was given to the charity’s fundraising volunteers and supporters, including Janet, Jeanie, Abigail, Wendy and Lisa, who had organised and participated in a variety of fundraising challenges and community activities throughout the year. Their efforts, alongside grant funding applications, sponsorship and donations, had helped generate vital income and support for the charity’s services.
Members also heard how the charity had successfully completed its appeal for a replacement minibus, raising more than £50,000 through grants, donations and community fundraising. The campaign resulted in the purchase of a new white minibus, ensuring members could continue to access activities, trips, holidays and support services.
The presentation also highlighted improvements to the charity’s premises, made possible through successful funding bids, donations of materials and the support of volunteers who had helped refurbish and modernise the centre. Geoff paid tribute to the many people who had contributed to the work behind the scenes, particularly trustees and volunteers who had helped maintain and improve the building while keeping costs under control.
A special awards ceremony formed part of the afternoon, with the Mayor presenting four glass awards recognising outstanding service and commitment.
Awards were presented to:

• Vicky for her contribution to fundraising initiatives.
• Fred for his tireless maintenance, repairs and practical support around the centre.
• Councillor Peter Walker for his long-standing service and dedication to Warrington VIP.
• Lisa Wong for her fundraising efforts in support of the charity’s minibus appeal.

Guests also enjoyed a reading of a poem by Fiona and heard about the successful Absolute Radio promotional campaign created by Adrian and Vicky, which secured £10,000 in Wickes vouchers. The vouchers were subsequently used to help improve and refurbish the charity’s facilities.
Throughout his address, Geoff emphasised the importance of the people working behind the scenes to keep services running.
“I wanted to give you an overview of the organisation’s state of health and a look behind the scenes. The staff, volunteers and trustees work incredibly hard, and their dedication is helping ensure that Warrington VIP continues to support visually impaired people across our community.”
The event concluded with a lively question-and-answer session, allowing members to discuss the charity’s future plans and priorities.
During the session, VIP member Jean asked whether new members had been informed about the charity’s popular “Brick in the Wall” initiative, which allows supporters to leave a lasting legacy through personalised commemorative bricks. Fiona explained that the initiative had recently been reviewed and updated and confirmed that further details would be shared in the coming weeks. She advised members that an update would soon be issued to supporters and the wider Warrington VIP community.
The Mayor was also questioned by member Ann, who expressed her disappointment regarding the absence of the traditional Warrington Walking Day this year. Responding to her concerns, the Mayor explained that plans were already in place for an alternative walking event to take place later this year. He further advised that work was underway to establish a new Community Interest Company (CIC) that would be responsible for funding and supporting the return of the traditional Walking Day from 2027 onwards. His response was welcomed by members, many of whom regard Walking Day as an important part of Warrington’s heritage and community life.
The discussion reflected the strong engagement of members and highlighted the many ways people continue to support the charity, whether through fundraising, volunteering, donations, sponsorship or legacy initiatives.
The afternoon served as a celebration of community spirit, resilience and teamwork, highlighting how the combined efforts of members, volunteers, trustees, staff, fundraisers and supporters continue to make a meaningful difference to the lives of visually impaired people across Warrington.
For further information about Warrington VIP, its services and fundraising activities, please contact VIP on 01925 632700 or info@warringtonvip.co.uk or visit www.warringtonvip.co.uk