Merewent Cheshire Home appoints new chairman
Raven Naidoo plans to increase the home’s reserves in his new position of chairperson and looks forward to seeing more growth and continuity overall and within the different departments.
“A MAN of few words, a lot of action and integrity.” This is how the staff of Merewent Cheshire Home in Wentworth newly appointed chairperson, Raven Naidoo.
He has been with the home for about 25 years as a board member and has been actively involved in a number of activities. He has seen the home undergo many changes and developments throughout the years and is committed to do more.
He is an accountant by profession and owns his own practice. He is also involved in import and export business. He has plans to increase the home’s reserves in his new position of chairperson and looks forward to seeing more growth and continuity overall and within the different departments.
“In the past we have managed to receive funds and sponsorships from various organisations. But we are finding that more and more of the funding that is available is unable to cover our daily expenses, which make up our biggest expenses such electricity, food and water. And this is our biggest challenge. Our salary bill has also gone up by 50 per cent, in terms with government legislation towards minimum wages. We’re at a point where our reserves are totally depleted,” shared Naidoo.
The cancellation of fundraising events and the unforeseen costs brought forth by Covid-19 has really tested the organisation’s ability to survive on little during a pandemic. Naidoo hopes to bring in his years of business expertise towards helping grow the home and see it through its current financial woes.
The home houses 35 residents who have special disability needs. He shared that the home recently appointed a full time physiotherapist and social worker who have improved the vital services required by the residents.
Although times are tough at the home, Naidoo together with a dedicated team of staff and volunteers have explored different fundraising initiatives in efforts to save the organisation that assists the most vulnerable in the community. These include the toilet paper, adult diaper and wonderbag drives. All proceeds raised go towards bills and daily expenses.
“I’m very passionate about the work I do here and I’m totally committed. Together with all staff, we will strive to steer the ship in the best way possible,” Naidoo said.
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