I don’t know about you but I always think
that there’s something quite magical about this time of year. It’s that time
when we are persuaded to enter a world that is full of harmony, excitement and
good times - and why not? Surely it’s ok to succumb to the mass of adverts and
pressures that we receive from the media and businesses – you know the ones I
mean – those that seduce us into believing that the more we spend our hard
earned cash or savings, and the more we eat and drink, the happier our festive
holidays will be. And, I have to say to a certain extent I do get drawn in and
I do enjoy the festive season and the atmosphere it creates.
But for me, this time of the year is about
community spirit. At this time of the year, more than other times, it would
appear that people are in a better place and mood. You only have to see the
number of people who turn out to see the Christmas lights switched on in their
local town or city and to see the numbers that attend local fairs and events to
know that it is a time in the year that people want to enjoy and embrace.
This feel good factor also extends into the
workplace and I really enjoy seeing you all at the December staff forums and
taking some time to reflect on what we have delivered and achieved and to have
that precious space to discuss what’s ahead and our key priorities. It’s always
good to hear how things are for all of you and I welcome your questions and
comments as it helps me and the corporate directors to understand how you view
the organisation.
It’s useful to have feedback and the staff
forums and the recent staff survey will provide valuable insight into where we
can improve and enhance our workplace and workforce for the future.
I am also delighted that I will see some of
you at the Hope for Tomorrow curry and quiz night on Wednesday 3 December. The
evening, which will raise funds to support another mobile chemotherapy vehicle,
has sold out! More than 250 of you have bought tickets and will take part in
what promises to be a fun event and I can’t wait to see who will win and how
much money we can raise for this worthy charity that supports those with cancer
living in rural areas that need chemotherapy. These vehicles mean the treatment
needed can be accessed closer to home helping them when they are so poorly. A
huge thank you for your support – it is very much appreciated and I am so
looking forward to it.
At this time of the year I would encourage
you all to embrace and enjoy what’s on offer in your local community, town,
city and workplace. Don’t forget we will be hosting the Christmas Carol service
in the atrium on Monday 8 December at 1pm, and the Wealth of Wiltshire
Christmas Fayre will take place on Thursday 11 December, which this year promises
to be even bigger with more traders and choirs and entertainment – and…most
importantly don’t forget that the 11 December is also National Christmas Jumper
Day and all of you brave enough to wear one will help to raise money for Save
the Children. Now, if you’re not in the festive spirit by now,
maybe a festive sweater for a good cause will get you there!
Mine’s ready…..!
