I’m excited to share some fantastic achievements in Peterborough that truly deserve recognition. From empowering local organisations to celebrating the resilience of individuals overcoming adversity, the city has witnessed incredible progress in recent months.
As a council, we are committed to supporting those making a difference in our community, and it’s been a privilege to highlight some of these milestones at recent events. This post explores the outstanding work of Peterborough Women’s Aid, the entrepreneurial spirit of Crowdsafe UK, and the inspiring journey of Jamie McAnsh, a local hero who is living proof of the power of resilience.
Peterborough Women’s Aid: A Well-Deserved Award for ‘Social Enterprise of the Year’
It was a moment of pride to see Peterborough Women’s Aid crowned ‘Social Enterprise of the Year’. This remarkable charity has been serving women and girls who have experienced domestic abuse and violence for almost 50 years. Their efforts in providing vital support, safe spaces, and services for survivors cannot be overstated.
The team at Peterborough Women’s Aid work tirelessly to create lasting change in the lives of those who need it most. Their recognition not only honours their dedication but also brings much-needed attention to the issue of domestic abuse. As a council, we stand firmly behind organisations like Peterborough Women’s Aid, whose mission aligns perfectly with our goal of building a stronger, safer community for everyone.
Celebrating Local Business: Adam Hesson and Crowdsafe UK’s Entrepreneurial Success
Another highlight was handing the ‘Young Entrepreneur of the Year’ award to Adam Hesson, the Managing Director of Crowdsafe UK, a local business that provides crowd management and security services.
Adam’s journey is an inspiring one. He founded Crowdsafe UK just before the onset of the Covid pandemic, a period that disrupted most businesses. However, Adam didn’t give up. Instead, he adapted his business model to meet the urgent demand for social distancing marshals in supermarkets during lockdown. This pivot helped sustain his business, providing a lifeline to many while ensuring safety during an unprecedented global crisis.
Adam’s resilience and entrepreneurial spirit in the face of challenges are a testament to the strength of local businesses in Peterborough. His success serves as a reminder that no matter how difficult the circumstances, adaptability and innovation are key to thriving.
Jamie McAnsh: A True Hero of Resilience and Inspiration
We also had the privilege of hearing from guest speaker Jamie McAnsh, whose story is nothing short of incredible. Jamie lives with Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS), a condition that causes constant pain and has left him reliant on a wheelchair. Yet, Jamie has not allowed his condition to define him. Instead, he has used his experiences to inspire others and create opportunities, all while living with unimaginable pain.
One of Jamie’s most remarkable achievements was climbing a mountain using only his bare hands. This feat is a powerful reminder that resilience and determination can turn obstacles into stepping stones. Jamie also competes regionally and nationally in basketball tournaments, proving that disability does not have to be a barrier to achieving greatness.
His outlook on life, which he shared with us last Thursday, is one that I believe we all can learn from: “You either succeed, or you learn.” This mindset is one that I apply to my own work with the Peterborough City Council.
Facing Challenges Head-On: The Council’s Ongoing Efforts to Overcome Financial Hurdles
Reflecting on Jamie’s attitude, I can relate it to our council’s journey over the past six months. When we took office in May, we inherited numerous challenges, many of which were years in the making. However, as Jamie said, failure was never an option. Our goal is to learn from the past and find a way forward for the people of Peterborough.
One of the council’s most pressing challenges has been its financial situation. Years of underfunding from central Government and the decision to freeze council tax have left us in a difficult position. In fact, freezing council tax in previous years has cost us a staggering £96 million in total, with £10 million lost last year alone. This money would have gone a long way to funding essential services for our residents.
But failing is not an option, and we’re committed to delivering a balanced budget for the new financial year. We will be making some tough decisions, but they will be made with the best interests of Peterborough residents at heart.
Honouring a Local Legend: Charles Swift OBE Memorial
As part of our ongoing efforts to celebrate local achievements, we have completed a memorial to honour the life and legacy of former councillor and city mayor Charles Swift OBE. Charles served on the Peterborough City Council from 1954 until 2016, making him one of the longest-serving councillors in the country. His dedication to the city and his community is unparalleled, and his memory will live on with the recent installation of the Charles Swift Square signage outside Sand Martin House.
This memorial is a fitting tribute to Charles’s lifetime of service and his significant impact on Peterborough. It is an honour to ensure that his legacy is remembered and celebrated for generations to come.
Supporting Families: Christmas Activities and Support for Children
As we approach the festive season, it’s important to remember that for many families, the holiday period can be stressful and financially challenging. However, there are plenty of resources available to support local families. For example, our Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) programme offers children from school-aged families the chance to participate in a range of activities during the Christmas half-term break. These include sports camps, arts and crafts, baking, and dancing, all designed to provide fun and support during a time when families need it most.
This initiative ensures that children in our city can enjoy their holidays without the pressure of financial strain, helping to create a happier and healthier Christmas for all.
Conclusion: Celebrating Resilience, Innovation, and Community Spirit in Peterborough
As we look back on the last few months, it’s clear that Peterborough is a city full of incredible people and organisations. Whether it’s the dedication of Peterborough Women’s Aid, the entrepreneurial spirit of Crowdsafe UK, or the resilience of individuals like Jamie McAnsh, there’s so much to celebrate.
As a city, we continue to face challenges, but like Jamie, we’re determined to keep moving forward, learning from the past, and making decisions that benefit all our residents. Together, we are building a stronger, more vibrant Peterborough, where every achievement counts.
Relevant Links for Further Reading
- Peterborough Women’s Aid: Supporting Survivors of Domestic Abuse
- Crowdsafe UK: A Local Success Story in Security
- Jamie McAnsh: An Inspirational Journey of Resilience
- Peterborough City Council Financial Challenges
- Charles Swift OBE: A Lifetime of Service to Peterborough
photo credit: Telegraph
