Canterbury Oast Trust chosen to make retirement gift for NHS Chief

Published: 19 March 2014

Local Charity Chosen to make Retirement Gift for CEO of NHS England

Canterbury Oast Trust were delighted to be asked to make a retirement gift for Sir David Nicholson who has left NHS England after a long and distinguished career. A chance visit by one of Sir David’s NHS colleagues our Tea-rooms in Rye where our acclaimed art work, ceramics and textiles are proudly displayed, meant we were chosen to make that special gift.

Our Tea-rooms and Art gallery are just two of our life-skills, providing development opportunities for the adults we support and allowing them to work to achieve City & Guilds certificates. These help to motivate our students and have even led to volunteer and job opportunities across Kent and East Sussex..

Neil Calveley was asked to take the trip to St Thomas’ Hospital in London with Kaidy Lewis, our Art Gallery Manager. Neil is currently studying for his City & Guilds in Pottery, and he made part of the gift for Sir David. Neil presented the gifts at the party, and invited Sir David to visit the charity when he retires.

Kaidy Lewis said "We were so chuffed to be asked to make the gift, and then to attend the party - and tell so many key people in the NHS how great the care, support and development is for those with Learning Disabilities in Kent. It was a proud moment when Neil presented his work."