Worthing Charity Celebrates 30 years

On Saturday 29th March supporters and well-wishers gathered to celebrate the 30th anniversary of Acorn Pregnancy Counselling Centre.

The charity, based in St Dunstan’s Road, Worthing, offers free counselling to anyone in the area who is facing unintended pregnancy, or pregnancy loss such as miscarriage, still birth or post abortion.

The event was addressed by the newly appointed High Sheriff of West Sussex, Dr Tim Fooks, who is the charity’s patron. Town Crier Bob Smytherman added his special blend of sparkle to the occasion and also spoke movingly of his support for Acorn’s aims.

The audience heard from one of the founders, Liz Slaughter, who spoke of how her concern for the plight of women facing unintended pregnancy led to the launch of the charity all those years ago. A more recent client also shared her personal story on video.

Charity trustee Patrick Woodward commented “Acorn has been providing this unique service for Worthing since 1995, and in that time many hundreds of women and men have come through our doors seeking support. Additionally thousands of young people have learnt the story of pregnancy through our work in schools, which is still flourishing in 9 secondary schools in the area. It was amazing to gather together past and present volunteers and supporters, and we look forward to the next chapter in Acorn’s life as our work continues”.

More information, and how to get help, is available at the charity’s website www.acornworthing.org.uk