The Mayor of Barrow, Councillor Kay Hyland, has continued her programme of community visits, meeting local organisations that provide invaluable support to residents across the borough. Over the past week, the Mayor visited Cardiac Risk in the Young (CRY), Furness Homeless Support Group, and the Furness Ability and Sleep Hub, learning more about the incredible work being carried out by dedicated volunteers and community leaders.
Supporting Life-Saving Heart Screening
The Mayor attended a Cardiac Risk in the Young (CRY) heart screening event at Alfred Barrow Health Centre, where 190 young people aged between 16 and 35 received free heart health checks.
CRY has been chosen as the Mayor’s Charity during her term of office, and the event demonstrated the importance of early detection in preventing young sudden cardiac deaths. Every participant was seen by a cardiologist and received an electrocardiogram (ECG) and an echocardiogram (heart ultrasound scan) to help identify any previously undiagnosed heart conditions.
The screening day was organised by Lesley Mease, who has dedicated herself to raising awareness following the tragic loss of her son, Wilson, to an undiagnosed heart condition. The event was funded through charitable donations to CRY and supported in part by a grant from Barrow Town Council.
The Mayor praised everyone involved in delivering such an important community initiative and encouraged continued support for CRY’s vital work.
Lending a Helping Hand at Furness Homeless Support Group
The Mayor also spent time with the team at Furness Homeless Support Group, where she experienced first-hand the daily work involved in supporting vulnerable members of the community.
After being provided with a hairnet and apron, Councillor Hyland joined volunteers in preparing potatoes and fruit for lunch before helping with the washing up once meals had been served.
Speaking after her visit, the Mayor said:
“I loved every minute of it. Thank you for making me welcome. You do a fantastic job there and Barrow Town Council is proud of you.”
The visit highlighted the dedication of the staff and volunteers who provide practical support, compassion and dignity to those experiencing homelessness or hardship.
Celebrating Creativity at Furness Ability and Sleep Hub
The Mayor concluded her community visits with a tour of the Furness Ability and Sleep Hub at Walney Community Centre, where she was warmly welcomed by Amanda Bland.
Previously known as Stitchability, the organisation has expanded significantly and now offers a wide range of creative opportunities for young people alongside behavioural sleep support services, one-to-one interventions and workshops in a calm and welcoming environment.
During the visit, the Mayor saw a variety of arts and crafts being produced, including personalised mugs, T-shirts, keyrings and aprons, many of which are available to purchase or order. She was delighted to receive a handmade mug featuring the Barrow Town crest, created by members of the hub.
The Mayor also encouraged residents to visit the hub’s weekly craft market, held every Wednesday from 10.00am to 1.00pm at Walney Community Centre, to support local talent and the organisation’s ongoing work.
Councillor Kay Hyland said:
“Each of these visits has shown me the incredible compassion, commitment and community spirit that exists across Barrow. From life-saving health initiatives and support for vulnerable people to creating opportunities that build confidence and wellbeing, these organisations make a real difference every day. It has been a privilege to meet the volunteers, staff and community champions behind them, and I thank them all for the warm welcome they have given me.”
Barrow Town Council is proud to support and celebrate the outstanding work of local organisations that help make the borough a stronger, healthier and more caring place for everyone.