Beacon of Hope Award for Popalong leader Serena Hancox
Crich Standard is happy to bring some celebratory news that a valued member of our community, Serena Hancox, has been recognised for her hard work during the pandemic by being presented with a Derbyshire Beacon of Hope Award on Monday 9th August 2021.
The Award was recently launched by Derby City Council, the High Sheriff and the Lord-Lieutenant and seeks to recognise those across the county who have played a key role in responding to the pandemic in their communities.
Serena was nominated by members of the Popalong Baby group which she set up in the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic to support new parents. Taken from the nomination – “Serena recognised that lockdown would have a huge impact upon new parents and saw the potential gap in support, especially within a rural community where isolation and loneliness can be heightened.”
Popalong Babies was born out of Serena's selflessness and caring nature, created entirely from her own initiative and in her own time. She enabled the group to meet virtually each week during lockdown, as well as encouraging and coordinating face-to-face meet ups when restrictions allowed.
This Award formally recognises all of the hard work, care and time that Serena has selflessly put into this group which has provided a lifeline to new parents. Congratulations Serena!
For expectant and first-time parents, Popalong Babies continue to meet each Monday from 10:00am – 11:30am in Crich Wesley Methodist Chapel. Sessions are £2 including refreshments, anyone who is interested in joining please contact Serena on serena.hancox@gmail.com or Elizabeth Brierton on mrsbrierton@gmail.com
16 Aug 2021 09:00:00
Great to see the Popalong group still thriving and evolving. It was originally set up in 1988 by a group of parents and St Mary’s Church to provide support for each other, their babies & pre-school children.