Volunteer groups shine during Chair’s visits

Since launching the initiative with a visit to The Shed in Wymondham, Cllr Kathryn Cross has visited a range of volunteer-led groups and community projects, learning more about the important role they play in improving wellbeing, reducing loneliness, protecting local environments and bringing people together.

Over the past month, in addition to The Shed in Wymondham, she has visited Costessey Speedwatch, Pulham's Men's Shed, Poringland Conservation Area and Fishing Lakes, and Loddon Community Gym. Several visits were joined by local ward members, giving Cllr Cross an opportunity to hear directly from volunteers and community leaders about the challenges and successes of their organisations.

Cllr Kathryn Cross said:

My Year of the Volunteer initiative is all about celebrating the people who give their time, skills and energy to make South Norfolk such a wonderful place to live. Every group I have visited has shown the huge difference volunteers make in supporting others, creating opportunities and strengthening community spirit.

From helping people develop new skills and friendships, to keeping our communities safe, protecting our environment and improving health and wellbeing, these volunteers are making a real difference every day. It has been inspiring to meet so many passionate people and I look forward to visiting many more groups during the year."

Each of the community groups selected for visits were recommended by their local ward members. The Chair’s visit to The Shed in Wymondham was accompanied by Cllr Suzanne Nuri-Nixon. The volunteer-run community hub recently celebrated its tenth anniversary and offers opportunities for people to learn new skills, pursue hobbies and form friendships in a welcoming environment.

She later joined Costessey Speedwatch with Cllr Jenny McCloskey, meeting volunteers who give their time to help improve road safety and raise awareness of speeding in their community.

A visit to Pulham's Men's Shed highlighted how local volunteering projects can provide valuable social connections, practical activities and support for residents.

In Poringland, accompanied by Cllr Lisa Overton-Neal and Cllr John Overton, the Chair toured the village's conservation area and fishing lakes, learning more about the work being undertaken to maintain and enhance the site for both wildlife and the local community.

Most recently, she visited Loddon Community Gym with Cllr Jeremy Rowe, seeing first-hand how volunteers help provide accessible opportunities for residents to stay active, improve their health and connect with others.

‘The Year of the Volunteer’ initiative will continue throughout Cllr Cross's term as Chair, with further visits planned to community groups and volunteer organisations across South Norfolk.