Our Stories:
Meet Brenda

“I’ve been volunteering here more or less from the beginning, over 20 years. I started in the beginning doing little bits when I could because I’ve got kids and what have you. And then started working so I just did whenever and wherever. When I retired, I thought ‘It’s my time now, I’m going to do whatever I can’. 

I do a bit of cooking. If they want a corned beef hash, they come to me. If it’s sandwiches, soup or something like that, we all chip in. I’ve volunteered for the trips and if they’ve any events coming up, I’ll do those. It brings me enjoyment. Because if I didn’t have this, I’d be sat at home. It gives me a purpose. I’m 74 and I’ll go on as long as I can. 

It has changed a bit because of Covid. Not a lot, but it’s changed a bit. I think we’re more wary, but we try and say ‘You’re alright here, if you need anything, just let us know’. And we’ll try our best to help. If people have got any problems at home, we’ll try and help. I think if we didn’t get the funding, we wouldn’t be able to do half of what we do.” 

Burmantofts Community Friends support older people in the community. Their activities include lunch clubs, friendship groups and fitness & health sessions. They’ve received a range of funding from Leeds Community Foundation, including grants for their lunch club and the organisation’s strategic development.   

If you want to play your part in supporting brilliant local Community Organisations like Burmantofts Community Friends, learn how you can support us, or reach out at info@leedscf.org.uk.