Village team thanks selfless volunteer for ‘devoting 12 years of her life’ giving back to local community
Date: 02/06/2023
(Pictured: Lynn with her team of shop volunteers)
A local resident has spent more than a decade supporting residents in her community by volunteering to run a lifeline local shop to people over 55.
Lynn Hudson moved to Bradeley over 13 years ago after retiring from a career in social services. Bored and lonely at home she looked to her community for support.
She lives over the road from our over 55s independent living village Bradeley Village. The scheme has lots of facilities and activities on-site that residents rely on.
Having lived in the community for a while, and after seeing the difference the scheme was making to the area, she got in touch to offer her help.
“I missed seeing and speaking to people, so I found a volunteer role as a shop worker”, said Lynn.
“I had a busy career working with older people and thought it would the perfect role to keep me busy.
“I originally worked Saturday mornings and over the years have picked up extra shifts until I was asked to manage the shop.
“I of course said yes, and I’m still doing it now!”
Independent Living Manager Michila Goodwin said it's selfless people like Lynn who help make a difference to people’s lives.
(Pictured from right to left: Michila with some of the Bradeley Village team Maria and Helen)
“I’m so grateful to have a team of selfless volunteers providing essential services to residents in our community like Lynn.
“Her hard work and dedication over the last decade has been incredible.
“She’s become a pillar for the community and a recognizable face for people to talk to.
“She makes sure that residents have a shop on site, so they can fetch essentials and she's also there to natter if someone’s feeling down.
“We’d be lost and couldn’t provide the service without her, and I’m incredibly thankful for her support over the years.”
Lynn said she doesn’t do it for the praise. Instead, the experience makes a huge difference to her life and has helped her through tough times.
“The benefits of volunteering are amazing!”, exclaimed Lynn.
“It gets me out of the house and away from staring at the same four walls. Instead, it gives me a community of people to talk to.
“When my husband had cancer five years ago, volunteering gave me an escape where I didn’t have to worry about him for a minute.
“It gave me a space to talk to other people about our situation and get advice.”
Lynn’s now encouraging more people to get involved and says it’s a great way to meet new people.
“I would recommend volunteering to anyone”, added Lynn.
“Giving back to your community has great benefits for you too.
“If you’re new to the area it’s a great way to get your bearings. Or if you’d like to be more sociable it’s a great way to meet new people and create lasting friendships.
“We’re always looking for new volunteers at the Bradeley Village and I’d encourage anyone to give it a try!”
