Gifford Foote BEM

Gifford has dedicated much of his life to volunteering and community service. A former teacher, he served as a volunteer overseas in Papua New Guinea (1971-72). He remains actively involved in Handsacre Methodist Church, the patients’ review group, and the Regnal Society.

After 35 years of teaching, Gifford retired early in 1996 due to burnout. He then volunteered as an adviser with Rugeley Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB), while his wife, Celia, worked for Age Concern. Their experiences in these roles inspired them to establish Meeting Point, a community initiative designed to provide both social engagement and practical advice for those facing life challenges, particularly isolation and loneliness.

Meeting Point was founded in 1999 with its own constitution and approval from the Methodist Church Council to use church premises at cost price for heating and lighting. At the same time, Gifford helped raise funds to expand the church’s kitchen and improve accessibility for disabled attendees. While continuing his advisory work with Rugeley CAB until 2006 (plus an additional two years as a trustee), he gradually shifted his focus to Meeting Point, particularly when the introduction of a digital system replaced his preferred paper files and card indexes.

In 2000, invitations were sent to various local service providers, leading to the formation of a committee to coordinate a weekly programme. The early committee members included Jean Rowley, Lilian Thacker, Carolyn Shearman, Councillor Graham Metcalfe, village health visitor Pauline Cowser, Age Concern representative Beverley Franklin, a Home Zone (Housing Association) representative, Methodist Minister Rev. Julia Pellett, and Gifford himself.

Since its inception, Meeting Point has offered a welcoming space for mainly retired villagers, fostering social interaction and community support. Held every Tuesday morning, it provides tea, coffee, crafts, guest speakers, entertainment, and outings, with a focus on inclusivity regardless of financial means. The group also raises around £1000 annually for charity. Following the Covid-19 pandemic, all refreshments have been served via table service, enhancing the social atmosphere.

The programme follows a flexible but structured rotation:

• Week 1: Useful information session
• Week 2: A communal meal
• Week 3: A quiz or game, such as Beetle
• Week 4: A talk by a local person
• Week 5: Readings or a home-produced sketch
• Week 6: Lunch outing
• Week 7: Charity event
• Week 8: Craft work
• Week 9: Music selected by a member, plus occasional seaside trips

Individual concerns are followed up, with frequent referrals made for additional support.

Now in his mid-80s, Gifford continues to ensure the smooth running of Meeting Point, arranging transport for less mobile members, coordinating activities, and securing funding. His efforts have fostered lasting friendships and significantly reduced loneliness within the village. He remains a compassionate listener, offering support and advice, often visiting those who can no longer attend in person. His dedication was particularly evident during the pandemic, when he regularly checked in on residents and co-founded ‘Village Friends’ to provide additional community support.

Gifford’s work has earned widespread admiration. Meeting Point members describe him as kind, helpful, and a lifeline to many:

• “He is very much appreciated; he phones to check on us and sends Get Well cards.”
• “Meeting Point helped me make friends. He was very welcoming and works tirelessly for the village.”
• “During the pandemic, he was a star, looking after vulnerable people and making sure everyone was okay.”
• “A brilliant man and a true friend.”
• “He always sees the good in people and encourages them.”
• “He has gone out of his way time and time again to help others.”

His contributions were recently recognised with a £14,980 NHS grant to support transport services for Meeting Point attendees, ensuring accessibility for all.

After more than two decades of unwavering commitment, Gifford has transformed countless lives, cementing his role as a pillar of the community. His selflessness and service were formally acknowledged in the 2025 New Year’s Honours List with the award of the British Empire Medal.