Stephen Metcalfe, local MP for South Basildon and East
Thurrock, joined the Shadyfish Xperiance (TSX) for their ‘Making a Connection’
community fun day last week at Wat Tyler Park, Pitsea.
Founded in 2009 by Ricky McCarthy and Linda Russ, TSX seeks
to reduce the social isolation caused by issues such as substance abuse, mental
health problems and crime. They also extend their work to carers, single
parents, the lonely and the disabled and anyone else who would like to be included
in a non-judgemental and caring community. Using art as the medium, TSX exist
to build stronger communities, forge relationships, and breakdown social
barriers.
The annual summer event brings together local charities and
organisations in a similar field so that they connect and offer advice and
information to the visiting public. As well as a picnic tent and bouncy
castles, local organisations including the South Essex Partnership Trust,
Mosaic, Essex Young People’s Drug and Alcohol Service, and Christians Against
Poverty Debt Advisory Service. Community radio station Gateway FM were also on
hand to report on the day’s events.
Mr Metcalfe, who has supported TSX on a number of occasions,
commented: “I was delighted to support this fantastic charity at their
community fun day. TSX have done a brilliant job of bringing together vital
local services. It not only makes the public more aware of the support that is
available, but it allows organisations to connect and support one another.”
“I would like to thank TSX for organising this event and
hope that those who attended found it as informative and enjoyable as I did.”
TSX run three free community drop-in art sessions that have
proved extremely popular with over 60 people attending on a regular basis. If you
would like to find out more or think you might like to attend a group, please
visit http://www.shadyfishxperiance.com/.
