Volunteers at Harpenden Child Contact Centre (HCCC), which provides NACCC-accredited child contact services, have recently welcomed a series of VIP visitors through their doors.
Earlier this month, Victoria Collins MP for Harpenden and Berkhamsted visited the centre to learn more about the essential role HCCC plays in the community, as well as the funding challenges it currently faces.
The visit was a fantastic opportunity for the dedicated team of volunteers to showcase the vital work they do to support local children and families.
Victoria Collins said:
It was brilliant to visit Harpenden Child Contact Centre to learn more about the fantastic support they provide and meet many of their incredible volunteers who are dedicated to providing vital opportunity for families to spend time together in a safe and neutral space. It’s clear that this service is a lifeline for families here in Harpenden and beyond.
Established in 2005 by Loretta Ramswell, HCCC operates from All Saints Church Hall in Harpenden, Hertfordshire.
Last week, the centre hosted a number of VIPs at its well-attended Annual General Meeting (AGM), held on Tuesday 20 May at All Saints Church Hall. Special guests included the Mayor of Harpenden, Cllr Beth Fisher, and keynote speaker Annie Brewster, former High Sheriff of Hertfordshire.
Pictured Left to Right: The Mayor of Harpenden, Beth Fisher, former High Sheriff of Hertfordshire, Annie Brewster, Chair HCCC, Brigid Brennan, and NACCC Service Development Manager, Phil Coleman
HCCC founder Loretta Ramswell, who stepped down from the committee in 2018, was delighted to attend the AGM to see how the service continues to grow and develop. Phil Coleman, NACCC Service Development Manager, also received a warm welcome from HCCC Chair, Brigid Brennan.
Annie Brewster delivered an engaging and insightful speech. Having recently handed over the High Sheriff role to Nicholas Buxton, Annie remains a strong advocate for HCCC, having visited the team of volunteers last year while still in post. She spoke fondly of her time as High Sheriff, reflecting on the diverse duties and memorable experiences of the role – bringing along her custom High Sheriff uniform for all to admire!
Guests were particularly interested in hearing about the development of HCCC services and the team’s innovative approach to funding. A standout initiative is their unique membership scheme, set up when the centre was first established. Members contribute an annual donation of £20 or more, providing a vital and sustainable income stream. Members were warmly thanked for their continued and valued support.
After the speeches, guests enjoyed light refreshments and had the opportunity to connect with other attendees.
A huge thank you to the amazing team at Harpenden Child Contact Centre for your warm hospitality and the incredible work you do to support children and families.
For more information on how you can support HCCC – whether by volunteering or joining their membership scheme – please visit their website.
HCCC is open on the second and fourth Saturday of each month from 1pm – 4pm, delivering NACCC accredited supported contact sessions. These provide a safe and supportive space for children to reconnect with non-resident parents or family members following divorce or separation.
With a range of toys and activities available, the centre offers a welcoming environment where children are safe, supported, and free to thrive.