Warkworth, Probus Club

Warkworth and District Probus Club held its monthly lunch meeting at the Sun Hotel on Thursday, May 19, and had as its guest speaker Mr Nihad Cehic, who gave a talk on the work done by the NSPCC, with particular reference to the Newcastle area.

To make us all aware of the need for the NSPCC, he quoted the number of children in Newcastle who are assessed as “at risk” and also the number under child protection plans.

Most members were shocked by the picture of child neglect that he eloquently painted.

He told us that the Newcastle branch had four areas of risk on which they concentrated – neglect, emotional abuse, physical abuse and sexual abuse.

Not everyone was aware that due to the amount of work involved, Childline isnow run by the NSPCC. Apparently, a contact is made every 25 seconds and this is why it is a 24-hour service, available 365 days a year.

Another area which Mr Cehic highlighted was the visiting of every primary school to make pupils aware of possible dangers to themselves and what to do if they have any problems.

Our next meeting will be held on Thursday, June 16, when the club will welcome a representative of The Great North Air Ambulance as our speaker.

We are always looking for new members. If you would like to know more about Probus, give Colin McClure a call on 01670 763006.