The Ladies' Friendship Group visited Vecta House Care Home in Newport Isle of Wight twice over the summer.

In July they attended the garden party dressed in traditional costumes.

In September they gave a cookery demonstration as part of International Week at Vecta House.

Both events were a success and the contribution by the Ladies' Friendship Group was much appreciated by the residents.

Regular Equals IW Ladies' Friendship Group meetings started this month after the summer break.

This months activities included

• A meeting with Samantha Greatrex who is the Equalities Lead for the local NHS Trust. Held on the 14th Sept 2017 at St Mary's Hospital we discussed the possible involvement of Equals in Black History Month at the hospital.
• Some members attended the Celebration of Heritage Lottery Funding India Mardi Gras ,also on the 14th Sept 2017, at Ryde Academy. Sandra and Niviera were given certificates on behalf Equals IW for their contribution.
• On 22nd Sept 2017 the Ladies' Friendship Group participated at Vecta House Care Home in Newport for their International Week by giving a cooking demonstration.

June Meeting Update

"As the Equals Men’s Friendship Group Co-ordinator I am keen to get the group out and about in the community during the summer months.

Sam and Justin from the Men’s Steering Group met me outside Ryde LA Bowl on Tuesday 20th June 2017. Steering Group Member Wayan came along with Ilker.  

As a group we took an evening leisurely walk along the sea front and got up close with nature at the canoe lake. Then we walked along to Appley Tower and took in the wonderful views of Solent on a beautiful summer’s evening. 

We discussed ways to build the Men’s Friendship Group and shared ideas of fun activities and cultural experiences. We all agreed that once we had a large enough membership an evening to go karting would be amazing fun. In the longer term the men are keen to challenge Women’s Friendship Group to a racing event.

David from the Men’s Steering Group sent his apologies and wished the group evening every success."

Mark

Next Event

Coming from any background including an ethnic background, you may sometimes feel like you need a friend who understands and supports you in the community.

If so join the New Equals Men’s Friendship Group by coming to an evening Barbecue at Prince’s Green West Cowes on Thursday 24th August 2017, 18.30 to 21:00.

Come and join the New Equals Men’s Friendship Group, building bridges to celebrate and embrace diversity on the Isle of Wight.

EqualsIW took part in the 2017 Mardi Gras in Ryde on Saturday 1st July 2017.

The theme for the year was "Reflection of India" and the Women's Friendship Group was in

the Imperial India “Deli Durbar” section. Here are a few more images from the day.

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Wendy Loader passed the donation bucket and it was almost full thanks to all generous donors especially the kids on the streets ...well done!