MEP Catherine Bearder visits Strollers, to celebrate the European Year of Volunteering 2011
Catherine Bearder, Member of the European Parliament for South East England visited Woking for a cup of tea and an informal chat with volunteers and customers at Strollers in Goldsworth Park on Friday. The visit emphasised the valuable work of volunteers in the community and highlighted the European Year of Volunteering 2011.
"The European Year of Volunteering is both a celebration and a challenge. It is a celebration of the commitment of millions of people in Europe who work in their communities during their free time without being paid." (http://europa.eu/volunteering/en/home2)
Catherine was given a warm welcome by Stroller's Manager, Jackie Robb, volunteers and customers. Strollers, near Waitrose shopping centre in Goldsworth Park, has become an integral part of the Goldsworth Park community since it was formed 22 years ago. This small registered charity provides a drop-in centre with a 'Coffee and Conversation atmosphere' for retired and disabled people. This valuable service in the community for vulnerable people, provide services specially tailored to increase companionship and alleviate loneliness, thus preventing problems associated with isolation and depression.
Even though Strollers is supported by Woking Borough Council, they could not function without the dedication and commitment of their large team of volunteers.
Catherine Bearder said:
"It was great to come to Woking to see the fantastic work being done at Strollers. As soon as you walk in you can tell how important it is for so many in the local community. I spoke to people who go to meet friends there every day."
"Because of this, the work of the volunteers is vital and Strollers is a shining example of the great work that can be achieved in areas like Goldsworth park with the help of the volunteers."
"I met volunteers that were in their 70s, 80s and one woman in her 90s! It's just this sort of community involvement that must be keeping them so young!"