Suffolk graduate encourages young people to volunteer to help tackle rural isolation

A creative writing graduate from Suffolk is encouraging other young people to follow in her footsteps and volunteer.

For the past eight weeks, Hannah Burgess, 23, from Shipmeadow has been volunteering for Bungay Community Support (BCS) helping the charity with its marketing, graphic design and social media.

Hannah is one of 60 volunteers working together to offer a range of support services helping locals in the town and surrounding villages combat rural loneliness and high living costs.

She said: ’’When I heard that the charity needed help with marketing I thought it would be great to get involved. I am isolated myself as I live in the middle of a field, so I know how it feels. I thought the services the charity offers are great things which I would appreciate if I was older.

“So far I have mostly been helping with poster creation and graphics for advertising. It’s been great work experience and it’s helping me to build a portfolio for future employment.

“I would encourage other young people to consider volunteering. It’s an opportunity to experience the world of work without being in the world of work. Since joining I’ve learnt new skills and grown in confidence.”

Founded in 2020, BCS first started offering emergency aid during the pandemic and hit the headlines in 2021 with its pioneering warm rooms initiative – providing free, warm spaces for people to drop into during the winter months.

Teresa Ann Davies, former nurse and BCS volunteer said: “I joined BCS as a volunteer two and a half years ago after I gave up full-time work following the death of my husband. I first started as a befriender. I am a people person, I could listen to people all day long. I love volunteering, I have made so many friends. A lot of our volunteers do tend to be retired, so having someone like Hannah really helps to bring new skills.

Since the pandemic, the charity has expanded its services and is in the process of transforming a former butcher’s shop in the town into a community hub and subsidised food hall. The refurbishment first started last October with the help of volunteers.

Sue Collins, volunteer and BCS chair of trustees said: “I am overwhelmed by the hard work and commitment of our volunteers who have magically created a superbly designed centre for Bungay residents. The level of care and consideration given to every detail of the construction is truly remarkable. All this has been achieved with the skills and dedication of local people who have generously given their time to make this happen for the benefit of the wider community.”

The community centre and food hall called Number 28 is due to open in June and Bungay Community Support is in need of new volunteers. Like Hannah, organisers are encouraging younger people to get involved.

If you would like to find out more about volunteering for Bungay Community Support you can register your interest by emailing: bungaycsinfo@bungaycs.org.uk.