Hawick Community Hub Grand Opening 31 July 2017 Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland’s Community Hub at 61 High Street, Hawick opened its doors on Friday, 21st July at 11.30am. CHSS are really excited about their new innovative space on the High Street and were delighted that MSP Rachael Hamilton, MP John Lamont, Deputy Lord Lieutenant Mr John Scott and members of the Hawick and District Stroke Group helped open the shop. Jay Hogarty Retail Director said “This is a new venture for us which offers potential opportunities both now and in the future for local contacts in the Borders as we seek to bring support closer to the communities we support. The Community Hub combines retail space with additional areas which the community can use to either participate in activities, education or training, or to simply meet up socially for a coffee.” “We have a small seated area with access to tea and coffee facilities, a small private adviceline room, and a large open plan space upstairs which can be used flexibly for a wide range of activities. As a charity which supports those who live with physical disabilities, we hope to provide accessible facilities within most areas, including access to toilets.” During the opening CHSS nurses were taking blood pressures and staff were given a taster stroke experience workshop. Jayne Morris, Shop manager explained “We have had tremendous support and interest from townsfolk already and we are delighted to be working with the community to make our first Community hub a huge success. This is such a large store and we are looking for people to join our friendly team as we grow and develop within Hawick and support one another as we all settle into our new roles! Volunteering is always in style and you can become part of a lively team in the store, with plenty of customers to chat to, stock to organise and windows to dress; we have a wide range of volunteering opportunities available in for you.” “Not only can your time make a real difference to people living in your local community it can also be good for your own health. So volunteer with us to gain new skills, build friendships, broaden your experiences and open up the door to new possibilities!” For more information on volunteering opportunities in store, pop into the shop at 61 High Street, Hawick and speak to Jayne our Shop Manager. ENDS Media Enquiries: Katy Aitken, Senior Press Officer Tel: 0131 225 6963 email: katy.aitken@chss.org.uk Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland 2nd Floor, Hobart House 80 Hanover Street Edinburgh EH2 1EL