Town Councillor to Receive Community Safety Award

Hailsham town councillor and local campaigner Mary Laxton has been awarded the East Sussex Fire Authority Community Safety Award in recognition of her work relating to the Kids Count Project, which donates clothing, toys and other items to families in need.

The award, in the form of a certificate, was introduced by the East Sussex Fire Authority to recognise individuals who, through initiatives and/or Service involvement, have made a significant impact through their work in the community.

The certificate will be presented by the Chair of the Fire Authority, Cllr Roy Galley, at an Annual Awards Evening event to be held at Bannatyne Spa Hotel in Hastings on Friday 18^th October, following the presentation of the Long Service & Good Conduct Medals.

The Kids Count Project, based in Hailsham and spearheaded by Cllr Laxton, is designed to help people in Hailsham and other Wealden towns by providing baby bundles for families.

The charity, which has been running for 5 years, takes referrals from all the statutory agencies that request items for families in need, and operates in a similar manner to a food bank but providing baby equipment, clothes, toys, and toiletries, as well as books and school uniforms up to the age of 16 years.

Cllr Mary Laxton, delighted to have been nominated for and won the award, said: “In the five years to date we have operated in the community, we have provided over 1,000 bundles to local families, receiving on average one referral a week. There are over 25,000 children living in poverty in East Sussex and our aim is to make a real difference to the lives of babies and children in the area.”

“EVERY child, no matter what their situation, should get the BEST start and BEST future possible, and we’re extremely proud to be part of that,” adds Cllr Laxton.

“Our bundles are of the highest quality and presented in a recyclable bag. Furthermore, we are a very eco-friendly organisation and have members who craft, knit and make bags and clothing from pre-loved materials!”

“I am humbled by the recognition received and for having been given the East Sussex Fire Authority Community Safety Award. I will accept on behalf of my generous members who live in the area and donate fabulous items to the Kids Count Project. We could not exist without their support for such a community-driven project.”

Further information on the Kids Count Project can be found on their Facebook page: Kidscountproject or by contacting Cllr Mary Laxton on 01323 370984.