Rachel first started working with this group in November 2020 whilst we were in lockdown. As it was not possible for the group to meet due to the restrictions, Peter the Chair kept in regular contact with the group, either by phone or calling in on them whilst walking his dog. He also did a Fish and Chip run every Friday to the local fish shop, for the group and other local residents. To a lot of residents this was a real treat and something to look forward to. Peter featured in the RMBC Home Matters magazine for his fish and chip runs.
Once the neighbourhood centres opened again, the group started to meet back up in person, they were so happy to get back inside the centre and all get together. They hold a breakfast coffee morning every Tuesday from 10am and continue to have their fish and chips on a Friday, but this is now in the centre at 12 noon. I have met this group on several occasions now and help and support them where I can. The group would like to get some new members to join the group, they don’t have to be residents just from Leverton Way, they can be from further afield. I have discussed with the group different ideas to get more people interesting in attending i.e. arts and crafts, day trips, events etc. The group like to put on lunches too but needed new equipment to enable them to do this.
Rachel supported the TARA to put in for the COMF funding and they have been successful. This will enable the group to purchase the new cooking equipment they require and also put on events etc. I will support them all with this in 2022. The funding also paid for the group to have a Christmas meal out together.
This is a really friendly group who want to make a difference for the people around. I really enjoyed working with Peter and the other members.