Horndean community centre keeping people connected through lockdown by moving its services online
A BUSTLING community centre has come up with creative ways to keep the public talking and having fun through lockdown.
While it is closed to the public, Merchistoun Hall in Horndean has a variety of regular and seasonal activities appearing online thanks to hardworking members of Horndean Community Association.
With the only physical service open being the nursery for key workers’ children, activities and services are updated on the website and social media often, including word searches and games, virtual race afternoons and an information page to advise Horndean residents about latest coronavirus guidance.
Brendan Charles, association manager, said: ‘When we realised we were going to be affected, we sat here and thought in the true spirit of a community association we should still be able to do some of the things we were doing but not in a physical sense.
‘Just because we can’t open the centre, there’s nothing to stop up providing our services.’
For those who cannot access the internet, Brendan is able to post activity sheets out regularly, and has been making more than 80 phone calls a week to all the members to catch up with how they’re doing.
‘When I look at the numbers of people engaging with the posts we put up it’s obviously having an effect,’ said Brendan.
‘It’s doing brilliantly, it’s heartening. It’s really lovely to know that we’re at the point we are and we can still have an effect on people.
‘The last thing we would want to do is shut up shop. We’re in a crisis and we’re here to help you.’
Brendan has worked for the association on and off for 30 years, so he is very passionate about helping the community stay in touch.
He said: ‘I started as a volunteer and absolutely fell in love with the place. I have been so lucky to work for an organisation where I have worked with so many fantastic people.
‘The fact that you’re appreciated for what you do goes a long way as well. It’s been a very quick 30 years.’
For more information about the activities and services, phone the centre on (023) 9259 7114 or visit merchistounhall.btck.co.uk.