Bespoke pen donated to Prime Minister by Day Centre attendee
A handmade pen, crafted by a stroke survivor from New Horizons Day Centre, is being used by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak.
Paul Beechey, who visits the centre, was asked by Vale of Glamorgan MP Alun Cairns if he would kindly provide one of his machine crafted pens for the current PM, and he duly agreed.
Earlier this month, Mr Cairns presented Paul with a signed letter from the Prime Minister, thanking him for the pen and his charitable donations from the sales of his wooden crafts.
Paul was referred to the centre a couple of years ago following a stroke which left him with limited movement. He was encouraged to participate in different activities and soon found he enjoyed working on a small lathe in the workshop.
Day Care Service Officer, Faye Harding, said: “Paul came to us a in 2019 and we encouraged him to participate in various activities. He enjoyed working with his hands and using the workshops lathe. Soon afterwards he learned to make intricate wooden items which he sold at local crafting fairs.
“The Day Service is part of the Vale of Glamorgan Council Social Services Department. Our aim is to improve people's wellbeing in a supportive and encouraging environment.
“Paul has become a strong advocate and promotor of the service. This shows in the work that he is now achieving at the centre.”
Paul explained how New Horizons had helped him to rebuild his self-esteem and confidence after his illness and praised the staff who have assisted him on his road to recovery.
In response to the signed letter, Paul said: “I was honoured Alun Cairns asked me to donate one of my pens to the Prime Minister.
“I feel immensely proud in the knowledge that my pen is being used by the leader of the country. I would like to thank the staff at New Horizons in helping me with my rehabilitation.”
New Horizons provides a day service for people who have a permanent or substantial physical disability. Delivered by a dedicated and experienced team of staff, offers a range of therapeutic and creative activities including woodworking and arts & crafts.
Further information about the New Horizons Day Care Centre is available on the Dewis Cymru website.