Craig Mackinlay, MP for South Thanet, recently visited East Kent Mencap to discuss the significant impact it has on the local economy. Thanet Councillor, Lesley Game, joined Mackinlay.
During their visit, the representatives discussed the charity’s new project, Getting On with Learning Disabilities (GOLD), with CEO Jason Gerlack. The Big Lottery funded project aims to provide advice, information and support to people with a learning disability that do not receive statutory funding, or are moving out of the welfare system.
In response to the project, Mackinlay commented: “I was delighted to be informed by the Big Lottery Fund that East Kent Mencap has recently secured funding to deliver its GOLD project in Thanet, a very worthy cause.”
The project will help East Kent Mencap to continue its involvement in the region. “We have brought money into Kent and Thanet through externally funded projects and contributed over £1m to the local Thanet economy through goods, trade and local taxation,” explained Gerlack. “About three quarters of our team are Thanet residents and two thirds of our investments are here in Thanet.”
Before departing, the representatives met East Kent Mencap’s drama group, who were rehearsing for their pantomime, The Magic of the Yellow Brick Road (pictured above).
[Siobhan Rose O’Gorman]
