Bev and Courtney’s story has been shared as part of Cygnet Social Care’s ‘Cygnet in the Community’ campaign, which aims to showcase how residents within social care settings are undertaking inspiring and powerful work in their communities.
Thanks to the support of staff at Langdale House, a residential care service for adults with learning disabilities and complex needs, the duo have become a powerful pillar of support in Huddersfield, using their time to give back to two local charities and a nearby residential care home.
Inspired by their passion to help others, Bev and Courtney were keen to contribute to their community so the Cygnet Social Care service made a sustained effort to turn this dream into a reality.
Sandra Delaney, Deputy Manager at Langdale House, said: “Our team worked closely with Bev and Courtney to identify what matched their interests and strengths. We helped them to build on their confidence before attending and provide support if needed during these volunteering sessions. Gradually, they have become a lot more independent.
“At Langdale House, we believe that everyone has something valuable to offer to their community. Bev and Courtney are a wonderful example of this. Giving their time, kindness and enthusiasm through volunteering has made a real difference not only to others but to themselves as well.”
For the last two years, the pair have been visiting the Norman Hudson Care Home in Huddersfield every other month to spend time chatting and playing games with the elderly residents, something they both look forward to.
Friendships and meaningful connections have been built between the volunteers and the care home, with Courtney sharing, “I love helping people. We have a latte and talk lots.”
The Cygnet Social Care residents’ commitment to helping others didn’t stop there and they soon became regular volunteers at a local cat rescue centre, Cats Protection Leeds, a cause they were particularly keen to get involved with.
Bev said: “I like helping the cats. I love cats, I can cuddle, stroke and feed them.”
After partnering with Bev in their drive to help others, Courtney’s confidence flourished and she decided to volunteer additionally by herself at the British Heart Foundation, where she sorts out customers’ donations and organises items ready for sale.
Courtney said: “Helping others makes me feel very happy. I like talking to the customers and sorting out the money.”
Sandra shared the huge change the Cygnet Social Care service has seen in the two residents: “Courtney is now much more comfortable speaking with customers, asking questions and working alongside other volunteers and members of the public. She takes great pride in helping the shop run smoothly.
“We are proud of both Bev and Courtney. They have grown in confidence, independence and self-esteem by developing new skills and forming friendships within the community. These two have gained a real sense of purpose.”
The impact has been profound, not just for Bev and Courtney, but also for the local community.
“By volunteering, those that meet them are able to get to know them and appreciate their caring and friendly personalities. This is helping to challenge perceptions and promote inclusion within the wider community,” explained Sandra.
“Their journey shows that volunteering isn’t just about giving back. It’s about belonging, building confidence, creating opportunities and proving that everyone has something important to contribute. Bev and Courtney truly are a powerful volunteering duo, making a lasting impact wherever they go while inspiring others to do the same.”