Story: Feeling Good volunteers | Photos: Lisa Swift
Women have been flocking to Verdon Recreation Centre to enjoy new activities at the drop-in every Wednesday morning.
It’s organised by Burngreave TARA (Tenants and Residents Association) with local health professionals and women who are helping as volunteers each week. It’s funded by the People’s Health Trust and will continue until next summer.
Activities include exercise, Somali dance, sewing, knitting and crochet. Women can also check their weight and get advice on diet and well-being. There is a lot of chatting and sharing of skills and knowledge. The women said:
“I am happy because I lost some weight and I made new friends. I’m also doing volunteering and exercise. We achieve a lot from this project; it’s very helpful.” Helen
“It is a good idea to meet each other once a week. I got help to lose weight and I learned how to knit from friends I have made here.” Khadidja
“I attend this weekly session. I volunteer by listening to people’s problems and offering advice. I get involved in the knitting, teaching English, interpreting and filling in forms. I really enjoy this and have fun.” Farzann
“I have just joined as a volunteer and I sat down beside an old friend. We haven’t had a chance to talk for years. I am a mad keen knitter and I am thinking of involving people in ‘yarn bombing’ (street art with knitting or crocheting).” Diz
“I have been doing exercise here. I would like to be a volunteer because I would like to help people and make new friends.” Roza
“I am very glad to come to the centre because I meet people from different backgrounds. I like to be here for the simple reason it is socialising and exercising. It is a good place for women in the community to meet.” Sarah
“It is very helpful and I meet people from different backgrounds.” Zahra
Come along any Wednesday during term time, 10am to 12noon. You can bring your children along. For more information, contact Aislinn on 07939 394 037.