Meet volunteer Lucy

The warm welcome of The Base was enough to lure Lucy in to see what the community centre in Leyland’s Broadfield was all about.

As she began to attend more frequently, she was encouraged to become a volunteer.

Lucy volunteers at The Base four days a week, cooking food for the community cafe, as well as overseeing the community food shop, the clothing exchange, and charity shop. She also prepares crafts for the Leyland festival float and she is acting as creative director for props and costumes in this year’s community panto – Snow White.

She says: “Volunteering was not something I actively thought about doing. I used to walk past and see the women’s group on a Tuesday. One day I plucked up the courage to go in - everyone was so nice and welcoming, so I kept coming back. I attended other things, such as the community shop and community cafe. It was nice to get out as I don’t know many people. It was nice to find something and be me.

“Eventually The Base Community Services Manager Andrea held a volunteer recruitment drive and she asked if I wanted to be an official volunteer, so I said yes. I used to work in hospitality so I like being around people and being sociable.

“I like helping people – I would always help others above myself. What The Base does for people is amazing and it is nice to be a part of that. It is nice to know that I am giving back to the community, and being a part of something that is actively helping people.

“Everyone is so welcoming and understanding – we are like a little family. There is always someone here to talk to if you need to.”

Andrea says: “I would like to thank my amazing team of volunteers for their commitment and dedication and for their unwavering support, they are simply the best.”

Lucy has lived in one of our shared ownership properties in Broadfield with her partner and 10-year-old daughter for 12 years.

She says: “My partner was previously a tenant with Progress Housing Group. When his dad passed away and left inheritance, we decided to put our money into a property. We spoke to Progress Housing Group and we chose a house on the market. We put the money towards that and Progress agreed to put the rest in.

“I love my home, the garden is massive and all the children on the street play on there with my daughter. It is in a good area and everyone is friendly.”

• The Base I and The Base II, located in Bannister Drive, Leyland, are open Monday to Friday. Check out its Facebook page for more information on activities and support.