We were proud to celebrate the dedication and hard work of our volunteers with a special event at Handsworth Old Rectory on Tuesday 11th February 2025. The afternoon of recognition featured a three-course lunch and the presentation of certificates to those who have contributed to the success of our volunteer programme over the past five years.
23 local volunteers came together for the celebrations, along with a number of our staff and trustees. Attendees heard from Jack Czauderna (Darnall Well Being’s founder and still a member of the Board), Janet Harris (Acting Chair at Darnall Well Being) and Nic Adams (Voluntary Action Sheffield), before being thanked and presented with their certificates by Lucy Melleney (CEO at Darnall Well Being).
The event marked the conclusion of a five-year grant from the National Lottery’s Reaching Communities fund, which has enabled Darnall Well Being to maintain and develop our thriving volunteer programme. Volunteers have played a crucial role in supporting health and wellbeing activities in the Darnall ward throughout, helping to deliver activity groups and support public health outreach efforts.
Over the past five years, volunteers have participated in valuable training, supported the community through the challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic, and, in a number of cases, progressed into employment. From Mariam, who has gone into employment with Sheffield Teaching Hospitals, to Mags, who provides office support for us now that she has retired, to Janine, who supports Dementia Café sessions and who recently saved her neighbour’s life using First Aid skills that she learned in her volunteer role – the volunteer programme offers something for everyone. The volunteers’ dedication makes a lasting impact on our local community, and this celebration was an opportunity to express our thanks for their commitment and hard work.
“We are incredibly grateful for our volunteers, past and present, who have been at the heart of our activities programme,” said Fran Arnold, Communications & Contracts Manager for Darnall Well Being. “This event is a chance to reflect on their achievements and celebrate the difference they have made in people’s lives.”
For more information about volunteering opportunities with Darnall Well Being, please contact us on 0114 2496315 or dwb.enquiries@darnallwellbeing.org.uk.