Council and democracy

(Registered Charity No: 1042479)

Each year the Mayor uses their term in office to raise funds for charitable causes.

In 2009-2010 the Mayor will be supporting Garwood Foundation, Rutherford School and the Whitgift Special Needs Activity Project. 

Garwood Foundation, Rutherford School

Founded in 1952 as Croydon Spastics Society, the Garwood Foundation is a local independent charity providing a wide range of services for local children and adults with profound and multiple disabilities, their families and carers.

In addition to a residential home and a day centre, the Foundation runs Rutherford School, in South Croydon, as an independent registered special school for up to 25 children aged 2 - 12 years.  In order for pupils to learn, they need a combined programme of specialised therapies involving physiotherapy, speech and language therapy, occupational therapy, music therapy and nursing care.

These are all integrated into an individual educational plan brought together by the class teams of teachers, nursery nurses and classroom assistants.  A new annexe was opened by HRH The Princess Royal in 2008 and the Foundation is now fundraising to refurbish the original building to include a hall and extra facilities.

Whitgift Special Needs Activity Project

Generally known as Whitgift SNAP, the project provides an opportunity for disabled children and young people to experience a wide range of sporting and leisure activities during school holidays.

Launched at Whitgift School in 1985 to meet a need not provided elsewhere.  In the borough, SNAP also gives respite to parents and carers.   Many of the participants live in poorer parts of Croydon and the programme comes to be regarded as a much-appreciated holiday that would not otherwise occur.  Volunteers helping to run the activities also benefit from a greater familiarity and understanding of disabilities which they can use more widely in promoting awareness.

As well as a varied programme making use of the school’s excellent sports, swimming, art and craft, and drama facilities, the project organises regular outings to local and regional attractions.

Donations can be made by using Gift Aid. This means the Mayor's charities can reclaim tax on the gross equivalent amount of donation you have made.  A form for donations using Gift Aid is available to download (see below).

All contributions to the charity fund during the year will be received with thanks and appreciation by Mayor on behalf of those who stand to benefit. Cheques should be made payable to:

The Mayor's Charity Appeal (Registered Charity No: 1042479)

and sent to:

The Mayor's Parlour
Town Hall, Katharine Street
Croydon
CR9 1XW
020 8760 5764