Steve Grasham, a Children and Youth Adviser in the diocese, has been commissioned by Bishop Nick as Diocesan President of The Children’s Society.
Steve says, “The Children’s Society works with children most in need - whether they’re homeless, at risk of exploitation, runaways, disabled or refugees. So I’m very glad to be able to support the charity in this way.
"Locally the charity has two children’s centres, projects in Bradford, Keighley, Halifax and Leeds and several charity shops. And churches can be a huge support through volunteering at projects and campaigns, through prayer and fundraising. (And I’d love for more churches to re-establish the link between Christingle services and the charity, who provide the resources.)
On 20 June, Steve will be taking part in a tandem skydive to raise funds for the charity as it tries to break the world record for the most skydivers to jump for charity in one day. He says, “I’m not too terrified (yet) - it’s something I’ve always wanted to do”.
Helen Whiteley, regional fundraising manager, says, “Steve’s already had a big impact for the Children’s Society; he’s raised the charity’s profile in the region and helped us strengthen relationships and build new ones. He’s helped establish new Christingle services in Bradford and Wakefield cathedrals and he encourages people to get involved in our work. So we’re naturally very pleased that his support will continue in this expanded role across the whole diocese and we wish him well in our world record attempt mass skydive in June!”
Steve, who originally worked as a primary school teacher, was formerly Children and Youth adviser in the Diocese of Bradford from 2001.
To find out more about The Children’s Society or if you’d like to volunteer, please contact Helen Whiteley on 0113 250 9007 or helen.whiteley@childrenssociety.org.uk.
To support Steve with his skydive on 20 June visit www.doitforcharity.com/sgrasham