Celebrating Volunteers at Southbury

Southbury Leisure Centre recently hosted a special Volunteer Recognition Event to celebrate the incredible individuals who support the much-loved Southbury Senior Programme — and we’re excited to share a behind-the-scenes video capturing the day.

Now in its 18th year, the Southbury Senior Programme has grown into far more than a weekly activity session. It has become a vibrant community where exercise goes hand-in-hand with connection, friendship and belonging. With the support of dedicated volunteers, the programme continues to play a vital role in reducing loneliness and improving the physical, mental and social wellbeing of local older adults.

The event recognised five outstanding volunteers who have recently completed GLL’s new onboarding and induction process, officially becoming part of the volunteer team. This milestone reflects both their personal commitment and GLL’s strengthened approach to volunteering — ensuring clear guidance, safeguarding and support so every volunteer feels valued throughout their journey.

The day was also attended by partners and colleagues from across GLL and the local community, highlighting the importance of volunteering in delivering inclusive leisure programmes.

Community Leisure UK joined us to film the event, producing a video that brings the programme to life. The footage showcases:

Senior activities including badminton and functional fitness sessions
The popular social morning in action
The volunteer recognition presentations
Interviews with volunteers and GLL colleagues sharing their experiences
These stories highlight the powerful impact volunteers have — not only in supporting sessions, but in building a sense of community that keeps participants coming back week after week.

The event concluded with refreshments and time for everyone to connect, reflect and celebrate together. Feedback from attendees was overwhelmingly positive, reinforcing the strength of the Southbury senior community and the importance of recognising those who make it thrive.

Building on the success of the day, GLL aims to expand its volunteer onboarding and recognition approach across more programmes, ensuring volunteers continue to be supported, celebrated and central to community wellbeing initiatives.

Thank You to Our Volunteers
A huge thank you to Anna Long, Brian Meakins, Roger Barnes, Shirley Cano and Richard Brooks for their dedication and enthusiasm. Alongside our fantastic senior participants, they help make Southbury’s programme such a meaningful and uplifting experience.

👉 Watch the video to see the impact for yourself and celebrate the people who make it possible.