Still busy times

Hi readers, it’s me, Kerry here, feeling today like the world has gone mad. This weekend, I read that Iceland, the supermarket chain, plan to reward customers loyalty cards by £1 if they report shoplifters. That’s because Iceland lose £20million each year to theft. I’m struggling to get my head around that, and if I would report someone I saw stealing. It may depend on the situation.

It also makes me wonder what is really wrong here. Why do people steal? Are they struggling with money and problems, or are gangs? Don’t we need to get to the root of that?

Meanwhile, back home, I’m still searching for a support worker. It’s harder than it’s ever been before, and starting to make me feel quite anxious. Last week I was delivering Oliver McGowan training and the social worker was calling to ask questions. I rang her back in the break but it’s  distracting. I just want to do my job and not have this worry.

It's noisy in town too. The tribute concert in Brewery Square was very noisy and loud this weekend. Children were screaming a lot. No wonder lots of people I know are moving away from there. It’s hard to relax or have a peaceful day.

And what about this development north of Dorchester, where they want to build 3750 new homes. That’s bigger than Poundbury! My view is most of us won’t want this on our doorstep, but England does need more homes, including affordable ones. I ask that if it goes ahead, the planners meaningfully consult the Dorchester Access Group. Many new developments have not been accessible, so let’s get new ones right. We can help planners make it great!

Thanks for listening today. As always, if you have any comments, please get in touch.

The writers of the Our View column are supported in their editing by People First Dorset - a charity led and run by people with learning disabilities with support from staff