Those in need of transportation should call the number above. They will be asked to contribute a nominal sum towards the journey.
The drivers are all volunteers and, very occasionally, it may not be possible to find a driver on a specific day. It is appreciated that it is not always possible to give advance warning of when a car is required. However, it does help to have one or two days' notice if at all possible. .
Each year, the Care Group holds a lunch in the Village Hall for all drivers and those who benefit from the service.
The Forbes Almshouses are administered and funded by a Charitable Trust, whose aim is to provide basic housing for those of very limited means.
Because the Almshouses were endowed by the widow of George Forbes, then the owner of Bereleigh, subsequent owners are Trustees of right. .
Each house consists of sitting room, bedroom, kitchen, bathroom, garden and outside store. Five houses are two-storey and two single-storey. Residents pay a weekly contribution towards the upkeep of the properties.
Numerous causes have benefited from the £29,000 donated since the Fund’s inception.
These include the Village Hall, youth organisations, the Luncheon Club, East Meon School, Meon Matters, junior sports activities and the Queen’s Golden Jubilee and Millennium celebrations. Thought has also been given to the village appearance with the planting of daffodils in road-side verges as well as additional trees and replacing some of the footpath stiles with ‘kissing gates’ more user-friendly to the less able.. Contact to be provided.
Requests for funding are considered by the Committee who have to ensure that they are within the guidelines laid down by the Charities Commission. Funds are raised through events such as the twice-yearly Gardens Open.