B&Q Volunteers Transform Hampshire Centre Supporting Older People
By Community Correspondent
A team of volunteers from B&Q has helped transform a community centre supporting older people in Hampshire, giving its communal spaces and gardens a major refresh.
The volunteers spent the day at Age Concern Hampshire's Lockswood Care & Wellbeing Centre in Locks Heath, where they painted community spaces, revitalised gardens and built new outdoor seating for older residents who rely on the centre's services.
The project forms part of B&Q's Community Days initiative, which sees employees across the UK and Ireland volunteer their time and skills to support local charities and community organisations.
At the Lockswood centre, volunteers took advantage of the warm weather to weed flower beds, replenish soil, plant new flowers and construct a new garden bench. Inside the building, another team gave the main communal hall a fresh coat of paint, helping create a brighter and more welcoming environment for visitors.
All paint, tools and gardening supplies used during the project were donated by B&Q.
The latest improvements build on a partnership that has now run for four years.
Last year, B&Q volunteers transformed the centre's Reflection Room, creating a peaceful space where older people, carers and visitors can relax away from busy daily activities.
For volunteer Hollie Langford, an accountant at B&Q, the day was about making a practical difference while doing something she enjoys.
"I really enjoy time outside," she said.
"I'm a very keen gardener and it's great for mental health too so it's beneficial for all."
Age Concern Hampshire says the improvements will have a lasting impact on the hundreds of older people who use its services each year.
Hannah Park, Head of Operations at Age Concern Hampshire, praised the volunteers for their efforts.
"We're so grateful to have the B&Q team here again," she said.
"Having a large group of volunteers has meant so many improvements have been made to our Lockswood centre. The hall has a fresh coat of paint and the garden is blooming.
"Thank you to the B&Q team for getting stuck in and doing it all with a smile on their faces. It's great to be able to collaborate with an organisation that is aligned with supporting the work we do across Hampshire."
Age Concern Hampshire provides a range of services designed to help older people stay connected, independent and active.
These include wellbeing centres, social groups, foot care clinics, information services and practical support aimed at reducing loneliness and improving quality of life.
The charity says support from businesses plays a vital role in maintaining welcoming spaces where older people can socialise, access support and build community connections.
With thousands of B&Q colleagues taking part in Community Days projects each year, the retailer hopes its volunteering programme will continue to help charities improve facilities and strengthen support for local communities.
Age Concern Hampshire is also encouraging other businesses to consider volunteering opportunities and partnerships that can make a difference to older people in their local areas.
