Volunteer Stories: Barbara

Follow our series of volunteer stories, here’s Barbara’s story.

Barbara has volunteered at St Luke’s for 10 years, having joined to keep herself busy during retirement. She is on the Over 55s Users Committee, and assists with community trips and events, including calling out the bingo numbers!

Barbara wasn’t stopped by lockdown restrictions, and used her time to telephone 30 members each week. She made sure they were coping okay, and was a friendly voice to those in isolation. Twice a week Barbara went shopping for those who weren’t able to go themselves, making sure St Luke’s members had everything they needed.

Barbara loves seeing the difference her role as a volunteer can make, particularly during the pandemic when the centre building wasn’t available to those who usually use it. A big bonus for Barbara is that she now knows so many more of her neighbours than ever before.

Barbara’s volunteering highlight was the lingo sessions she organised. When socialising outdoors was the only way to do it, Barbara encourages locals to bring their chairs and spread out in the park to pay a game of bingo. This became something many members looked forward to each week. Barbara would be ready to shout the numbers whatever the weather!

“I was volunteering within a week of joining St Luke’s and really enjoyed getting involved, helping out, meeting new people and making new friends. If you want to stay active, I recommend becoming a volunteer.

St Luke’s is a member of the Octopus Network, providing services, activities and events for local residents of all ages, including after school clubs, employment support and gardening for older people. The large, modern community centre on Central Street is a great backdrop for varies activities, as well as several outdoor areas for visitors to enjoy.