Seniors Shine in Creative Ceramics Workshop: St Leonards Edition

The complimentary event was part of First Time for Everything , a community programme created by Royal Voluntary Service to enhance physical and mental health and well-being. Funded by players of People’s Postcode Lottery, First Time for Everything offers individuals, especially seniors or those with limited mobility, the chance to explore new activities at no cost within their neighborhood, fostering social interaction and physical activity.

The gathering included 18 individuals who utilized foliage and organic elements to produce imprints or meticulously cut leaf forms for crafting their plaques and tiles.

Liz, the tutor, commented: "Everybody remained highly concentrated throughout. They needed to carefully consider each step, especially during the application of the glaze. It’s excellent for promoting mindfulness and well-being. The team demonstrated great creativity and achieved remarkably high-quality outcomes."

The First Time for Everything The programme initiated in 2017. Since then, aided by the Royal Voluntary Service volunteers, more than 1,000 have been reached. First Time for Everything Events have occurred throughout Great Britain. To date, over 15,200 individuals have participated in trying out various activities such as hot yoga, group singing, outdoor swimming, nature walks, chocolate crafting, and line dancing. A recent survey of participants revealed that 97% reported feeling happier following their attendance at these events. First Time for Everything occasion, with 93% reporting they felt more connected to their nearby community.

Laura Chow, who leads the charitable efforts for the People’s Postcode Lottery, stated: Staying active, venturing outdoors, and being an integral part of your neighbourhood contribute significantly to one's health and happiness, regardless of age, capability, or situation. Thanks to the substantial backing from participants in the People’s Postcode Lottery, 'First Time for Everything' unites locals to explore novel experiences, make new acquaintances, and enjoy themselves.

One participant, named Kim, commented: I had a fantastic time; I haven't engaged in such an activity since my childhood.

Rachel Rich, who works as the activity coordinator for St Leonards under the Royal Voluntary Service, stated: Thanks to the kind contributions from participants in the People’s Postcode Lottery, we're offering an array of thrilling 'First Times for Everyone' experiences for locals to explore this year. Attendees share how much they relish the opportunity to attempt something novel and engage with new individuals at these gatherings — their feedback underscores the positive impact these events have on people's lives.

A guided beach walk and rockpooling session will take place on June 3rd at 10:30 AM, followed by refreshments on the beach. Please register for your spot here. First Time for Everything events or for more information, Reach out to Royal Voluntary Service activity coordinator Rachel Rich at 07918 377510 or via email. rachel.rich@royalvoluntaryservice.org.uk Booking for all events is mandatory due to restricted capacities.

For those who can't make it out and about to First Time for Everything Royal Voluntary Service created the Virtual Village Hall for activities held in-person. This virtual space serves as a complimentary, digital centre offering various programmes aimed at keeping individuals both physically fit and mentally stimulated, fostering social connections and enjoyment. By supporting overall wellbeing, particularly aiding those managing chronic illnesses, this initiative benefits participants significantly. Funded through contributions from players of People’s Postcode Lottery, the Virtual Village Hall conducts daily livestream events on weekdays via platforms like Facebook and YouTube. These include fitness routines such as exercises, dances, yoga classes, along with relaxation techniques involving meditation, craft workshops, engaging talks, creative writing tutorials, and cookery lessons. Additionally, over 3,000 recordings are available in its comprehensive video library hosted on YouTube. Free activity sessions to enjoy. There’s no cost to join, and everyone is welcome to participate without needing to log in or subscribe. If an activity needs equipment, ingredients, or materials, they tend to be inexpensive and readily available. For details and participation in the Virtual Village Hall, look for us at @VirtualVillageHall.

The Royal Voluntary Service stands as one of the UK's biggest volunteer organisations, aiding the NHS, adult social care, and numerous individuals at risk within their neighborhoods. This charitable group manages the NHS and Care Volunteer Responders scheme under NHS England through the use of the GoodSAM application; these volunteers have addressed more than 2.7 million assistance calls benefiting around 200,000 citizens. Additionally, they operate locally, providing essential services like home library programs, offering companionship, facilitating discharge after hospital stays, and arranging transportation for patients.

For further information regarding local volunteering options with Royal Voluntary Service, please visit royalvoluntaryservice.org.uk/volunteering/

Follow Royal Voluntary Service on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok at @RoyalVolService.