Since Joan Bailey's decision in 1993 to build a school, much has been achieved simply by hard work, many visits to The Gambia and from funds donated by Joan and friends.

The Derek Bailey Foundation took on the mantle of a charity in 2002 for tax reasons but, in essence, activities are still largely funded from the private means of a few individuals.

There are many charities seeking well deserved contributions. The Derek Bailey Foundation is perhaps a little different in as much as it is small and highly focussed. It is very much a ‘hands-on' charity, involving regular visits to The Gambia to understand problems and to ensure that available funds are spent in the best interests of the people there.

Every penny donated goes directly towards projects to help the people of Nyofelleh. There are no administration costs of any kind charged to the Charity.

The school is a much bigger success than was originally envisaged. Still more children turn up eager to learn. However, the building is no longer big enough to take them all. At the moment the Charity simply doesn't have the capital to provide a much needed extension.

The new medical centre is of immediate concern. Originally intended as a low profile dispensary, its completion has exposed a need for basic medical care which is far greater, and over a wider area, than was ever realised. There is a growing number of would-be patients asking for help.

If we can somehow fund the necessary additional building work, facilities and medicines, the clinic can be developed to provide a higher level of care for many more people – particularly children.

Early diagnosis and treatment for those who need more than eye ointment or a Paracetamol tablet – maternity care, vaccinations, a wider use of drugs, a proper programme for teaching self help health care, a link into The Gambia medical system for surgery and more – all could be possible.

Somehow we must make it happen.

Would you be prepared to help?

David Allard
Secretary