Leeds Central Salvation Army gives thanks to army of volunteers this Volunteers Week

The church and charity in Nile Street runs three community drop ins a week, supporting people who are experiencing homelessness, struggling financially or are simply seeking some company.

It also provides food parcels and hosts activities including a Prayer Shawl ministry, a walking group and runs a charity shop in Meanwood Road.

Major Nicola Barker who leads the church with her husband Major Michael, said: “It’s thanks to our amazing volunteers that we’re able to lead a full programme of community support here.

"We offer a free meal on a Monday, roast dinner for a £1 donation on a Tuesday and an open house on a Thursday, where people can come and sit, have a coffee and sandwich, and do some activities like colouring.

"It’s very relaxed and we have people available for conversations. We also do a lot of signposting to other services and host agencies to help with things like benefits and job searches.

“Our guests find it relaxed and many will come multiple times a week. Our volunteers have such a good rapport with them that they feel welcome to stay as long as they want to.

“We have volunteers ranging in age from students up to Maureen, who is 93 years old.

"We really appreciate the people who give up their time and would encourage others to get involved with volunteering. It’s a great way to make new friends and support your community.

"Time is the only non-renewable resource we have, and our volunteers give it generously. Their time transforms the communities we serve.”  

Maureen said: “I love volunteering because it’s helping other people. It’s family and community. It’s very sad because a lot of people who come to us are not in touch with their families, but they come here and know that they have friends.”

Maureen’s daughter Caroline was inspired by her mum to volunteer when she retired.

Caroline said: “I was lucky enough to retire at 58, so I felt as though I needed to do something to give back to the community. I love The Salvation Army because they do so much good. The great thing is I get to know our guests, who are really lovely.

“A lot of people that come here are struggling, some are down on the luck, quite a lot of the lads are homeless and living under bridges, but if we can greet them at the door with a welcome, a smile, give them a warm space, a hot meal and have a chat that can mean the world.”

Volunteer Barry has been leading a Salvation Army walking group for around 30 years, taking people out once a month for guided five-mile walks in the Yorkshire countryside.

He said: “We’ve got about 25 people who come now. We meet somewhere different each time and do four or five miles. We always try and finish somewhere with refreshments at the end. It's good fellowship and gives people the chance to connect and get together. It's another open door.”

Tracy, who manages the charity shop, said: “We’re a community shop which means anybody's welcome, they can drop in to buy something, but also sit and have a drink and a chat with our volunteers.

“The volunteers come here because they might be at home on their own so want to spend their time doing something good for charity, or they might want to improve their English or build up their confidence and skill set to go to paid work. People feel valued when they're volunteering here.”

Leeds Central Salvation Army is celebrating its 150th anniversary this year. You can find out more about the activities hosted by Leeds Central Salvation Army here. If you are interested in volunteering please get in touch https://www.salvationarmy.org.uk/leeds-central