On Friday 13th June, we held a fantastic drop-in event at Foundry Street Community Centre aimed at increasing volunteering opportunities across Sowerby and Ripponden, while supporting patients in the surrounding areas to find purpose, improve mental health, and boost confidence.
Event Goals & Objectives:
Our main goal was to raise awareness about local volunteering roles and encourage patients to get involved. Volunteering not only benefits the community but also plays a vital role in improving mood, reducing stress, and building social connections — key priorities aligned with our Primary Care Network’s vision of enhancing patient care close to home.
Why Volunteering Matters:
Community Partners:
We were proud to welcome 12 local organisations, including AgeUK, Calderdale Dementia Hub, Overgate Hospice, Active Calderdale, Stones Methodist Church, and the Canal & River Trust, among others. Their presence helped showcase the wide variety of volunteering options available.
Who Attended:
The event attracted 21 attendees from our patient community and PCN teams, including Millie and Caitlyn, who were on hand to guide visitors and provide information about mental health and social prescribing. Millie and Caitlyn organise all the events on behalf of Calder & Ryburn Primary Care Network.
What We Heard:
Feedback was overwhelmingly positive. Attendees appreciated the welcoming atmosphere and enjoyed exploring diverse opportunities. Many completed interest forms to volunteer, and new connections were made between patients and local services.
