Sheriff's' and Recorder's Fund AGM
4th July 2022Central Criminal Court, Old Bailey
The Tobacco Pipe Makers and Tobacco Trade Benevolent Fund is a regular donor to The Sheriffs' & Recorder’s Fund – as are several of the Livery companies.
All current Masters and their Clerks are invited to the S&R Fund’s AGM, held in No. 1 Court of The Old Bailey.
It was an honour for the Clerk and I to attend.
Founded in 1808 the Fund gives grants to ex-prisoners and their families to help them stop offending and start a new life. It is well worth reading more about this on the web – quite fascinating work they do and most professionally managed.
A moving and somewhat emotional talk was delivered by a beneficiary who highlighted the difficulty prisoners faced in society on being released.
We also heard from HM Chief Inspector of Prisons, Mr. Charlie Taylor, on the many issues and challenges at stake surrounding prisons and inmates.
Lady Hilary Russell (Lady Mayoress 2021) was elected as Chairman and there is no doubt that she, along with her officers, will continue to broaden the range of essential benefits to the prisoners and their families. Last year they made 998 grants amounting to £199,600 – an impressive and commendable achievement.
A reception followed the AGM, sponsored by The Cooks' Company, with a delicious range of canapes prepared by The Clink – memories rekindled of our visit to The Clink Brixton prison several years ago capably arranged by Past Mistress Kate Golding!
As far as I can determine we are sponsoring a very worth while charity.