The Umbrella Centre Canterbury is a real community asset and is relied upon by many, that is why it is so wonderful to see it open once more serving up smiles as well as many other delights from its kitchen.
CommunityAd had the absolute pleasure of speaking to Sasha Douglas who has been volunteering at the Umbrella Centre Canterbury for three months and in her own words “could not be happier working in such a warm and safe environment.”
What’s your role and what do you enjoy most about it?
My personal role may not seem like much as I am a volunteer but I am here almost everyday helping out in all areas of the centre, whether it be serving customers, talking to members, hosting sessions, and so much more.
My favourite part is when I see familiar faces walk in and you know you can have a chat about anything and everything and there won’t be any form of judgement, people will always sit and listen. To see that level of community support around is so inspiring and I think we need more places around like here.
It must be so nice to have those doors open and more importantly that kitchen alive with the clangs and bangs of pots and pans, for both staff and clients?
Unfortunately, I was unable to see the centre as it was pre lockdown which is disappointing because I would have loved to see it heaving with people and full of life.
However, we all understand that it is a big step for everyone to leave their homes as we have come out of lockdown.
Many of our regular members were eager to return and it has been amazing to see the doors open and welcome back all of our members and see just how needed this centre is for so many.
I remember one afternoon, it was a member’s birthday and we had a few members popping over to visit and have some tea and cake, however, it rained. And I remember sitting here packing up the cake for another day and all I see is about 6 people with their coats and brollies come over and have some soggy cake and tea. It was such a special moment because regardless of the weather, these people will come.
What have you been up to since you’ve been back open?
Since opening we have been trying our best to restart our daily sessions, old and new. A particular favourite of the members is going on a Walk and Talk as well as a weekly visit from the Marlowe Theatre who come and host workshops with members and it is amazing to see everyone come together and focus.
We are still in the process of enhancing our blended service, so we are still doing our best to offer sessions both face to face and virtually via our Facebook Live.
Your cooking videos seem to have gone down well and look a load of fun to make?
The cooking videos are amazing. The level of skill and knowledge within these walls are endless and every week I am surprised at what is created because it’s things I would never eat in a million years but social politeness says just try it and even though it may only be 10am, I will be eating some curried cauliflower or carbonara or whatever is created in preparation for the members to create themselves at home.
Is there anything that our readers should be made aware of in terms of upcoming dates?
There are no special upcoming dates but all I will say to the readers is that we have various sessions occurring every day, some are artistic, some are meditation and mindfulness based, and others are simply about reflecting on yourself and how to move forwards out of any issues that may be occurring.
I simply urge anyone and everyone to pop down to the centre for a visit if they feel comfortable enough to because it is such an amazing place with so much support for the members that is something which can only be felt by walking into the building.