Introducing some of our re:fresh volunteers
Current volunteer role: Session leader (Exercise to Music)
Years of service: One year and seven months
Brief description of current role: In my current role I join other instructors to lead classes at Wensley Fold Primary School, Darwen Leisure Centre and Wesley Hall. These classes are aerobic style, with enjoyable music. Fun workouts aimed at people aged 50+ or those who are new to exercise.
How has your role changed during the pandemic? Unfortunately during the pandemic our classes had to stop. I have spent my time stufying for my Exercise to Music qualification and also volunteering with other schemes such as Track and Trace and also the local Foodbank. I have been maintaining my own fitness and liaising regularly with the re:fresh Volunteer co-ordinator. I am looking forward to leisure and fitness opportunities being available again for people in the local area.
What do you enjoy most about being a re:fresh volunteer? I enjoy learning new things, meeting people and the new skill set I have gained. I enjoy keeping fit and am very interested in health and wellbeing having previously worked in the NHS and being keen to maintain and improve my own health and wellbeing as I age. I feel physical health and mental health are connected and an enjoyable happy workout with good music can lift the spirits as well as the heart rate and help people feel good. It works for me and I am looking forward to working hard as an Instructor to help others do the same.
What would you say to someone thinking of becoming a re:fresh volunteer? It is a great thing to do with lots of support from the co-ordinators and other volunteers. I have enjoyed it so far and look forward to the future as a Volunteer.
Are you interested in joining the re:fresh volunteers team?
Do you have an hour or more to spare during the week? Are you interested in helping serve the community? Are you looking to enhance your skills?
Get in touch with us to find out more about the re:fresh volunteers team. For an informal chat or to express an interest please get in touch with:
Anthony Carr: 01254 587979/07855143720 anthony.carr@blackburn.gov.uk