Walter ‘Wally’ Kennedy is a 76-year-old Northwood resident, ex-Hillingdon councillor, proud socialist, the middle of 11 children, husband, father, and community hero.
January marks Wally’s 27th year of holding free surgeries in the Northwood area and providing help to people in crisis.
Wally spoke to Northwood&Ruislipnews to reflect on his time in the community.
He said: “There is a tradition of helping in most working-class cultures and I am pleased to be able to do that.
“To hold my advice sessions for 27 years is a reflection of the appalling hardships that many people endure. It’s not unusual that I get a phone call from a distressed child who hasn’t eaten for days or from someone experiencing domestic violence.”
Wally explained that his social conscious comes from his “difficult” childhood.
He said: “It’s rewarding to be helpful and to be able to be of assistance to people in trouble – something that I often wished for in my childhood and youth.”
The help that Wally gives includes topping up an Oyster card, painting, debt advice, employment advice, paying for someone’s electric meter, and more – all free of charge.
He added: “Don’t sit indoors fearful and embarrassed, shouting at one another or the telly. Don’t let this rotten system grind you down. Get in touch. I and others will help you fight back.”
Wally funds his sessions through donations and his own money – he gave up smoking 10 years ago and explained that the money he would have spent funding his smoking habit, he instead gives to those in need.
If you would like to donate, please email wallydkennedy@hotmail.co.uk
The advice sessions run from 6.45am to 10.15am on Saturdays at Cafe Hills in Northwood Hills.
0 Comments