THE CLENT Connect Community Shop has celebrated its first anniversary with those running it saying the positive impact on the area had ‘exceeded all expectations’.
The marvellous milestone was marked with a special celebration attended by 150 people coming to Clent Connect with their friends and neighbours to enjoy refreshments including a special birthday cake.
Paul Timmins, from the Clent History Society, also shared a display of shops through the years in the village (there used to be more than 20 and now there is just the one Clent Connect Community Shop).
A special ‘happy to chat’ bench was unveiled outside the Clent Connect shop – the bench is aimed at reducing social isolation and loneliness. Anyone who needs to talk can sit down on there and, likewise, anyone who can ‘provide a chat’ or a listening ear can join them.
An incredible 70 volunteers are now involved at Clent Connect – across the shop, the cafe, a litter-picking team, newsletter delivery and many other roles.
There is even a ‘chauffeur’ who collects those needing transport so they can join in activities.
The Clent Connect organisers are very grateful for everyone who has made its success possible – from the many volunteers, to Clent Parish Council, Bromsgrove District Council and the many people who continue to give their time, energy and skills free of charge.
Board member Bonnie Harvey said: “We are extremely proud to share that Clent Connect now enables more than 1,000 face to face social interactions every month – thereby helping to reduce isolation and loneliness, which is one of the main reasons why this community benefit society was originally set up post-covid.
“The feedback from the everyone is amazing and it really seems to have made a difference to people’s lives.”
Bradley Thomas, Bromsgrove’s Conservative Prospective Parliamentary Candidate (PPC), said:
“Clent Connect is an authentic community first and community led endeavour.
“It reduces social isolation, improves wellbeing, and provides a sense of community in isolated times and is an embodiment of a community that comes together to support together.”
John, an elderly local resident, said:
“The hub has been a lifeline to me as I’m unable to drive and the cafe has such a nice atmosphere, I always feel welcome here.”
Joanne, a new Clent Connect volunteer, added: “I feel included and welcomed into the community, volunteering here has helped with my confidence and trying new things after retirement.”
And Dick and Buffy, supporters of Clent Connect from the beginning, said:
“It’s so lovely to hear the primary school children are wanting to come and visit Clent Connect – it’s so important to get more inter-generational socialisation happening in the village as it makes for a better future.”
For more on Clent Connect, email [email protected] or call Bonnie on 07713 723987.
