Summer Newsletter 2026

Welcome to our Summer Newsletter

This newsletter brings together the latest updates from across Alexander House, offering a clear picture of what’s happening. You can expect a detailed update from the Friends of Alexander House, highlighting their recent contributions, upcoming plans, and the continued support they provide. We will also share key dates and events to help everyone stay organised and informed.

***

The Friends of Alexander House continue to meet formally once a month, and this time is used to engage with the Directors, discuss progress towards making Alexander House operational, provide practical support, and guidance/advice where appropriate, and generally have a voice in shaping the future of Alexander House.

During the past months, the friends have helped with cleaning and gardening, supported fundraising activities, and welcomed various visitors to show them what has been accomplished so far in the refurbishment of Alexander House, often, with a fabulous afternoon tea!

The friends would welcome hearing from anyone who would like to join the Friends of Alexander House group and be a part of shaping this exciting project for the community. Please drop a message to Sarah Moore on 07739157404 or email mooresl@hotmail.co.uk if you’d like to find out more.

It’s at our monthly meetings that the ‘150 Club’ draw takes place, and it continues to be a much‑loved part of our fundraising efforts. Each month brings a bit of excitement as the winning numbers are announced, and we’re delighted to congratulate all our winners so far. Thank you to everyone who takes part; your support makes a real difference, and good luck to all members for the rest of the year.

Monthly winning names are listed on the noticeboard at Alexander House and on our website.

We plan to extend the 150 Club in 2027, with someone contacting you later this year to confirm whether you wish to keep your entry or purchase additional entries.

Director Changes: Elizabeth Clegg resigned as a director on 11 July 2026, and Councillor Andy Pratt was formally appointed as a director on 16 July 2026.

Alexander House has received £1,200 in IT grant funding from Cumberland Council’s Investment Fund. The funding will be used to purchase four laptops and four headsets, strengthening digital capability for staff, volunteers, and community programmes.

Alexander House is celebrating a remarkable milestone as it marks its 40th birthday, providing an opportunity for residents, supporters, and friends to come together and celebrate four decades of community service. Established in 1986, Alexander House has been a familiar and valued part of village life, supporting wellbeing, independence, and social connection for people across the local area. Today, the building is entering a new chapter as a community-focused hub dedicated to supporting older adults, veterans, people with disabilities, and other members of the community.

A delightful afternoon was enjoyed by all who attended the recent Mosaic Workshop at Alexander House Community Care Hub. The event brought people together for a creative and enjoyable session while raising valuable funds in support of the hub's activities. All future events will be advertised on the Alexander House noticeboard, our Facebook page, the website, and in Bootle Stores.

For volunteering, donations, getting involved, community room bookings, or residential room visits, please contact one of our directors: Andy Pratt, Barry Rigg, Deborah Pattinson, or Anne Marshall. Thank you.