0:00:04 > 0:00:07We Brits are brilliant at volunteering.
0:00:07 > 0:00:10One in four of us regularly give up our time to help others,
0:00:10 > 0:00:13putting something back into the community.
0:00:16 > 0:00:20I want to tap into that spirit to make good things happen.
0:00:20 > 0:00:22THEY CHEER
0:00:22 > 0:00:26I'm on a mission to discover the positive effects of volunteering,
0:00:26 > 0:00:27from the volunteers themselves
0:00:27 > 0:00:31to the individuals and the communities that they help.
0:00:33 > 0:00:36Every day, people donate their time, expertise,
0:00:36 > 0:00:39imagination and elbow grease for others.
0:00:39 > 0:00:42They're in need of carpenters and volunteers,
0:00:42 > 0:00:45so I grabbed my tools and came down for the afternoon.
0:00:46 > 0:00:48I never thought at the end of my life
0:00:48 > 0:00:50I'd be helping others.
0:00:51 > 0:00:54I think volunteering's the lifeblood of what it is to be human.
0:00:54 > 0:00:55Yes!
0:00:55 > 0:00:57It's modest, ordinary people
0:00:57 > 0:01:02who are making such an amazing difference to people's lives.
0:01:02 > 0:01:04The world, to me, is a beautiful place now -
0:01:04 > 0:01:07it's 360 degrees from where I have come from.
0:01:09 > 0:01:11I'm better than what I was.
0:01:11 > 0:01:13I couldn't do this a year ago.
0:01:14 > 0:01:18My team is exploring inspiring schemes throughout the UK...
0:01:19 > 0:01:21..and tackling projects of our own.
0:01:23 > 0:01:26This is about communities at their best.
0:01:26 > 0:01:29People giving to help others.
0:01:29 > 0:01:33This is about the incredible things we can achieve together.
0:01:33 > 0:01:36This is Operation People Power.
0:01:42 > 0:01:44I'm in Easton in Bristol.
0:01:44 > 0:01:48Like many inner-city areas in the UK, it has mixed fortunes -
0:01:48 > 0:01:52and, like towns, cities and villages around the country,
0:01:52 > 0:01:56there are projects and local heroes who work tirelessly
0:01:56 > 0:01:58to bring people together.
0:02:02 > 0:02:05One person I've met striving to do just that is Bruce -
0:02:05 > 0:02:07and, like others who share his vision,
0:02:07 > 0:02:09he could do with a helping hand
0:02:09 > 0:02:12to really make a difference to the local area.
0:02:12 > 0:02:14All communities need a centre,
0:02:14 > 0:02:16and when you're in a poor area, as we are here,
0:02:16 > 0:02:18one of the poorest in the country,
0:02:18 > 0:02:22that centre becomes more valuable and more needed.
0:02:24 > 0:02:26Spaces where residents can come together
0:02:26 > 0:02:29are being squeezed out of many neighbourhoods
0:02:29 > 0:02:31due to the need for offices and housing.
0:02:32 > 0:02:34These hubs are facing closure,
0:02:34 > 0:02:37or are under pressure to impose costly charges
0:02:37 > 0:02:39for the locals to use them.
0:02:41 > 0:02:44Bruce runs a community centre called Baggator,
0:02:44 > 0:02:48and he has a very different aspiration for the place.
0:02:48 > 0:02:51Any improvement is always going to benefit the community.
0:02:52 > 0:02:55We're coming together to show what can be done
0:02:55 > 0:02:57with a bit of old-fashioned community spirit,
0:02:57 > 0:03:00and unlocking the skills and goodwill
0:03:00 > 0:03:02that can be found in every neighbourhood.
0:03:03 > 0:03:07We made a start on Baggator's outdoor space.
0:03:08 > 0:03:10It looks so different to how it looked earlier,
0:03:10 > 0:03:13- and it's been really fun.- Yeah.
0:03:13 > 0:03:15It's nice to be able to give back.
0:03:16 > 0:03:20The volunteers we've rustled up have worked tirelessly
0:03:20 > 0:03:23to transform the area into a multifunctional garden
0:03:23 > 0:03:26that will benefit all generations...
0:03:27 > 0:03:32..but that garden is just the start of an incredible change in fortunes
0:03:32 > 0:03:36that can be replicated anywhere with a bit of people power.
0:03:38 > 0:03:40I've called in reinforcements -
0:03:40 > 0:03:43some talented people who I know have got the skills
0:03:43 > 0:03:46to give the project a leg up.
0:03:46 > 0:03:48First up, it's Nicki Chapman.
0:03:48 > 0:03:52If anyone can get residents to donate their hard graft, it's her.
0:03:54 > 0:03:57Juliet Sargeant has been lending us her artistic flair -
0:03:57 > 0:04:01but she is not just an award-winning garden designer - oh, no!
0:04:01 > 0:04:03As a qualified psychologist,
0:04:03 > 0:04:05she knows better than many
0:04:05 > 0:04:08how projects such as these are so important.
0:04:09 > 0:04:14Martyn Ashton has been visiting some of the many inspirational projects
0:04:14 > 0:04:18that are enhancing communities and lives across the country,
0:04:18 > 0:04:21and bringing that inspiration back here to Bristol.
0:04:23 > 0:04:25And keeping things practical,
0:04:25 > 0:04:27Mark Millar's skills and determination
0:04:27 > 0:04:30are going to be critical keeping this project on track.
0:04:35 > 0:04:38Having masterminded the redesign of the outdoor space,
0:04:38 > 0:04:42Mark's back at Baggator to assess the scale of the task ahead.
0:04:44 > 0:04:47Well, when they say first impressions are everything,
0:04:47 > 0:04:50it's clear to see Baggator falls far from the mark.
0:04:51 > 0:04:53We could keep the blue and white.
0:04:53 > 0:04:55We've got to give them more, haven't we?
0:04:55 > 0:04:56That's what we want. Yes.
0:04:56 > 0:04:58Basically you've got to light the community up.
0:04:58 > 0:05:00You see, Mark, you're the man. You're the man to do this.
0:05:01 > 0:05:05Sometimes, it's the unglamorous jobs that will help the most -
0:05:05 > 0:05:08and there's certainly plenty of those.
0:05:10 > 0:05:11All right, then - take me to it, mate.
0:05:11 > 0:05:13After you Mark. This is it.
0:05:13 > 0:05:15Thank you very much.
0:05:15 > 0:05:18- Clean your feet. - See, it's a nice space, isn't it?
0:05:18 > 0:05:23It's been a youth club for 15 years quite successfully -
0:05:23 > 0:05:26but other age groups do use the facility,
0:05:26 > 0:05:28they use it as a hub to the community.
0:05:30 > 0:05:33The Baggator dream is to have the inside and out
0:05:33 > 0:05:36in constant use by all ages in the local area.
0:05:37 > 0:05:42But, when money is hard to come by, some key jobs just don't get done.
0:05:44 > 0:05:45The disabled loo is tired -
0:05:45 > 0:05:49but, more importantly, unfit for purpose.
0:05:49 > 0:05:51The doors aren't wide enough for a wheelchair,
0:05:51 > 0:05:54meaning disabled users need to use an outside toilet.
0:05:57 > 0:06:00The ceiling in the cafe is damp and dilapidated.
0:06:00 > 0:06:04It needs to be fully replaced in order to stand the test of time.
0:06:05 > 0:06:07Pipes and electrics are on show,
0:06:07 > 0:06:10and unused doors and breakable glass windows
0:06:10 > 0:06:12could be an accident waiting to happen.
0:06:14 > 0:06:15How long have we got?
0:06:15 > 0:06:18A couple... A few days. A few days.
0:06:18 > 0:06:20And we've got no money?
0:06:20 > 0:06:23No. But that's the purpose - it's community,
0:06:23 > 0:06:25it's all for one and one for all.
0:06:26 > 0:06:27Er, but that's not all.
0:06:27 > 0:06:29Aside from the newly transformed garden,
0:06:29 > 0:06:33outside, the courtyard is littered with old and unpractical storage,
0:06:33 > 0:06:37and a condemned building takes up usable space.
0:06:40 > 0:06:42I can see all sorts of stuff happening out here.
0:06:42 > 0:06:45It's a hub, it's the centre, it's a safe haven.
0:06:46 > 0:06:49It's definitely a blank canvas, mate, I'll give you that.
0:06:49 > 0:06:52My concern is the time and the volunteers.
0:06:52 > 0:06:55If the community could help with these larger jobs,
0:06:55 > 0:06:58then Bruce has the foundations to build on,
0:06:58 > 0:07:00putting his own stamp on the place.
0:07:03 > 0:07:04But, before we can do anything,
0:07:04 > 0:07:06we need to find the willing people
0:07:06 > 0:07:08who can give up their time to help...
0:07:10 > 0:07:14..and so I'm deploying the charm bomb, Nicki Chapman,
0:07:14 > 0:07:17to persuade the good people of Easton to lend a hand.
0:07:17 > 0:07:20We're working on a couple of projects in this area,
0:07:20 > 0:07:22literally just down the road.
0:07:22 > 0:07:26We're looking for people to get involved in any way they can -
0:07:26 > 0:07:29but, it's urgent.
0:07:29 > 0:07:33Excuse me, can I be cheeky?
0:07:33 > 0:07:35I'm looking for volunteers.
0:07:35 > 0:07:40And she's already signed up May, who is a dab hand.
0:07:40 > 0:07:43I did some volunteer work back in Brighton before I relocated here.
0:07:43 > 0:07:45How long have you actually lived in Bristol?
0:07:45 > 0:07:47I've been in Bristol for ten days,
0:07:47 > 0:07:49so it would be a great way of meeting people in a new community
0:07:49 > 0:07:50where I don't know anyone -
0:07:50 > 0:07:53and it gives you a real sense of what is going on where you live.
0:07:56 > 0:07:59On her rounds, she has bumped into someone who knows first-hand
0:07:59 > 0:08:03how valuable the role played by Baggator is to the neighbourhood.
0:08:05 > 0:08:07Baggator is really amazing.
0:08:07 > 0:08:11My daughter and one of my sons, we used to go there regular.
0:08:11 > 0:08:15Now he's an adult, but I try to get my other two teenagers to go.
0:08:15 > 0:08:20Jennifer, why do you think Baggator is so important for the community?
0:08:20 > 0:08:22If it wasn't for things like Baggator,
0:08:22 > 0:08:25the kids would be on the street and there is nothing for them to do.
0:08:25 > 0:08:28They would be messing around and giving trouble
0:08:28 > 0:08:31and that's not good for the community and the society.
0:08:32 > 0:08:37Another person who knows how vital Baggator can be is Samira.
0:08:37 > 0:08:40It changed her life in more ways than one.
0:08:40 > 0:08:42I first started going to Baggator when I was 15.
0:08:42 > 0:08:44We were there as, like, a little family,
0:08:44 > 0:08:47and then we had the friends that we knew, as well,
0:08:47 > 0:08:49and even the new people that started to come,
0:08:49 > 0:08:51we just made them feel at home.
0:08:51 > 0:08:54A lot of people in my sister's year, and my year,
0:08:54 > 0:08:57they didn't want to go - they were all into their...
0:08:57 > 0:09:00just walking around on the streets,
0:09:00 > 0:09:02doing drugs, drinking alcohol,
0:09:02 > 0:09:04all those types of things.
0:09:04 > 0:09:07I didn't do well at school, college or anything like that,
0:09:07 > 0:09:10but I think if it wasn't for Baggator,
0:09:10 > 0:09:13I wouldn't be here now, where I am.
0:09:13 > 0:09:16I think these youth centres are not used enough.
0:09:16 > 0:09:19These places actually give stuff back to the community,
0:09:19 > 0:09:22so I know that my daughter will have something when she's older.
0:09:23 > 0:09:26Bruce's dream is that as well as catering to the young,
0:09:26 > 0:09:29Baggator will continue to attract all ages -
0:09:29 > 0:09:32if they can continue with the improvements to the centre.
0:09:35 > 0:09:37But social clubs aren't just for the youngsters.
0:09:39 > 0:09:41MUSIC: Follow De Leader by The Soca Boys
0:09:41 > 0:09:44This is the Malcolm X Elders Group in St Pauls.
0:09:44 > 0:09:46- # Say I love soca - ALL:- I love soca
0:09:46 > 0:09:48- # Say I love soca - I love soca... #
0:09:48 > 0:09:52This lively bunch certainly know how to get on their feet,
0:09:52 > 0:09:55get out in the community and lift their spirits.
0:09:55 > 0:09:56# Everybody scream! #
0:09:56 > 0:09:59- ALL:- Yeah!
0:09:59 > 0:10:03# Follow de leader, leader, leader follow de leader... #
0:10:03 > 0:10:05One of the group's activities
0:10:05 > 0:10:08was the brainchild of Grenville from Golden-Oldies.
0:10:08 > 0:10:12He realised that a good old singsong is the best icebreaker.
0:10:14 > 0:10:19The social aspect of meeting together and singing together
0:10:19 > 0:10:24and making friends, is actually more important than the singing.
0:10:24 > 0:10:27That sort of knowledge about the power of...
0:10:27 > 0:10:31the friendship of singing sort of got my brain working.
0:10:31 > 0:10:36I thought if I could grab that atmosphere and fun,
0:10:36 > 0:10:40and I could take it to people who don't have much fun,
0:10:40 > 0:10:42then there might be an idea there.
0:10:42 > 0:10:45# Don't worry
0:10:45 > 0:10:48# About a thing
0:10:49 > 0:10:52# Cos every little thing
0:10:52 > 0:10:54# Is gonna be all right... #
0:10:55 > 0:11:00There are so many health problems associated with getting older,
0:11:00 > 0:11:01is singing good therapy?
0:11:01 > 0:11:04Oh, yes. I mean, I took a session once,
0:11:04 > 0:11:06and there was a couple that came,
0:11:06 > 0:11:10he had Alzheimer's and she was the carer.
0:11:10 > 0:11:15For him, the switch was off and, you know, people will know,
0:11:15 > 0:11:18that those...who have got members of the family
0:11:18 > 0:11:21that this terrible cloud that comes down.
0:11:21 > 0:11:24Anyway, so, I was doing The Wonder of You, Elvis,
0:11:24 > 0:11:27and we were going into Elvis, you know,
0:11:27 > 0:11:31"Your kiss to me is worth a fortune,"
0:11:31 > 0:11:37and, "You're always there," and he started to sing.
0:11:37 > 0:11:39The switch came on...
0:11:39 > 0:11:41and he started to sing.
0:11:41 > 0:11:42And she's holding his hand
0:11:42 > 0:11:44and all the people in the room are looking across.
0:11:44 > 0:11:47I couldn't look, because I was starting to go,
0:11:47 > 0:11:49- because it doesn't take a lot to get me going!- Yeah.
0:11:50 > 0:11:52They were singing to each other.
0:11:52 > 0:11:55They were singing to each other.
0:11:55 > 0:11:58- This song - and he was alive again. - Yes.
0:11:58 > 0:12:01You know? He was alive! It's the only way you can describe it.
0:12:01 > 0:12:04- VOICE BREAKS:- And at the end of the song... Sorry...
0:12:04 > 0:12:06At the end of the song,
0:12:06 > 0:12:11The Wonder of You, she threw her arms around him and they kissed.
0:12:11 > 0:12:14I mean, they had a snog. And then...
0:12:14 > 0:12:17- The switch went off. - Yeah, but for her...
0:12:17 > 0:12:20The song brought him alive.
0:12:20 > 0:12:23- Yes.- That song brought him back to life, Dave.
0:12:23 > 0:12:26- Yeah.- And everyone in the room was in tears...
0:12:26 > 0:12:28- and he passed away not long after. - Oh...
0:12:28 > 0:12:33But that proves how music can reach out.
0:12:33 > 0:12:35Music crosses all boundaries,
0:12:35 > 0:12:37songs can trigger memories,
0:12:37 > 0:12:41and people with Alzheimer's, with dementia -
0:12:41 > 0:12:44and you know it's not long, you don't get long.
0:12:44 > 0:12:47So, what would you need to get another session going?
0:12:47 > 0:12:53I would need, in any part of the UK, any part, however remote,
0:12:53 > 0:12:57- two or three people to say, "This is special..."- Mm-hm.
0:12:57 > 0:13:00"..we've got older folk who live in our community,
0:13:00 > 0:13:02"who are lonely, and we think it would be brilliant
0:13:02 > 0:13:05"if they could come together and have a singsong
0:13:05 > 0:13:06"in the Goldies style" -
0:13:06 > 0:13:09we could have sessions across the whole of the country.
0:13:09 > 0:13:11So what I want is people to volunteer
0:13:11 > 0:13:13and say, "How can we help?"
0:13:13 > 0:13:14We could be everywhere.
0:13:16 > 0:13:18We're a helpful bunch, as it happens.
0:13:18 > 0:13:21An estimated one in three people in the UK
0:13:21 > 0:13:25volunteered at least once in the last year...
0:13:25 > 0:13:30but, without the consistent donation of time from volunteers,
0:13:30 > 0:13:34many groups that provide a lifeline to certain members of the community
0:13:34 > 0:13:36can't survive -
0:13:36 > 0:13:40and that is a problem the Malcolm X Elders know all too well.
0:13:43 > 0:13:45Volunteers are very important.
0:13:45 > 0:13:48We haven't got the money to pay anyone -
0:13:48 > 0:13:52and as a group, we come here to help each other.
0:13:52 > 0:13:57Otherwise we'd all be sitting in our little homes...
0:13:57 > 0:13:59vegetating.
0:13:59 > 0:14:03One has to put the effort out.
0:14:03 > 0:14:06You can't just sit there and say, "I can't."
0:14:08 > 0:14:10You see all these things here,
0:14:10 > 0:14:12it is not something that I like to be lifting,
0:14:12 > 0:14:14but there is nobody here.
0:14:14 > 0:14:18We used to have a man who used to come but now he is in hospital.
0:14:18 > 0:14:20Hazel?
0:14:23 > 0:14:24It is a struggle.
0:14:24 > 0:14:26You see?
0:14:26 > 0:14:29You are here seeing what we are going through.
0:14:29 > 0:14:31It is a struggle.
0:14:33 > 0:14:35But what else can we do?
0:14:35 > 0:14:37I am drained already.
0:14:38 > 0:14:43Never mind when I reach home and my pains start on me now.
0:14:43 > 0:14:46I can just sit in the chair and groan.
0:14:46 > 0:14:50We all have our different ailments, everybody in here is a sick person.
0:14:50 > 0:14:51It gets too much.
0:14:51 > 0:14:56We need volunteers to help in the kitchen, to cook,
0:14:56 > 0:15:00washer-up, help to tidy up the kitchen
0:15:00 > 0:15:03and other things that are here.
0:15:03 > 0:15:05We need help, helping one another.
0:15:07 > 0:15:09That's what the club needs -
0:15:09 > 0:15:12and because, as I said, we have no money to pay anyone,
0:15:12 > 0:15:15it's got to be volunteers.
0:15:15 > 0:15:17I'm a volunteer.
0:15:17 > 0:15:18She's a volunteer.
0:15:18 > 0:15:20We're are all volunteers.
0:15:20 > 0:15:23We come together as a group to help each other.
0:15:26 > 0:15:30We already have an army of people working at Baggator,
0:15:30 > 0:15:32but this needs a different kind of volunteer.
0:15:33 > 0:15:37People willing to help out on a regular basis.
0:15:38 > 0:15:40Well, this to me seems quite straightforward.
0:15:40 > 0:15:44It's not about building structures, it's just about volunteers,
0:15:44 > 0:15:46you know, giving time - just a little time,
0:15:46 > 0:15:48but enough to make a difference.
0:15:53 > 0:15:57It looks like Nicki has found some of the answers.
0:15:57 > 0:15:58She has brought her volunteers,
0:15:58 > 0:16:01including Jennifer, who she met earlier.
0:16:01 > 0:16:02It turns out she's a cook
0:16:02 > 0:16:06and is keen to try and relieve the pressure on Cherry.
0:16:08 > 0:16:10I didn't think there was a kitchen.
0:16:10 > 0:16:13We need more volunteers brisk like Jennifer.
0:16:13 > 0:16:16We need somebody swift like how she's moving.
0:16:18 > 0:16:20Well, we appreciate this now,
0:16:20 > 0:16:23that somebody else come that livens me up in the kitchen.
0:16:25 > 0:16:27These ladies are amazing.
0:16:27 > 0:16:31I'm out of breath - they've been dancing for way over half an hour.
0:16:31 > 0:16:34Such rhythm, such style.
0:16:34 > 0:16:35Totally put me in the shade.
0:16:35 > 0:16:37Hello, ladies.
0:16:37 > 0:16:39I'm hovering. I'm hovering with a cup of tea.
0:16:39 > 0:16:42What an amazing place that you have here.
0:16:42 > 0:16:44Monday is, like, a day for me
0:16:44 > 0:16:49where I come and sit beside all these old funkies here!
0:16:49 > 0:16:50Old funkies, I like that.
0:16:50 > 0:16:53That's our friends!
0:16:53 > 0:16:54We're all friends.
0:16:56 > 0:16:59- You're like the Three Musketeers you girls, aren't you?- Yeah. Yeah.
0:16:59 > 0:17:00- Yeah!- We follow each other.
0:17:00 > 0:17:03I suppose it's not just about meeting up, is it?
0:17:03 > 0:17:05It's the venue...
0:17:05 > 0:17:10- And the social life.- Yeah, the facilities, being on your doorstep.
0:17:10 > 0:17:13And do lots of people have jobs here, or...?
0:17:13 > 0:17:15I mean, there was one lady I was talking to
0:17:15 > 0:17:18and she's a buddy for another lady that's got dementia,
0:17:18 > 0:17:19and she's been looking after her.
0:17:19 > 0:17:22- Are you speaking Joyce?- Yes, Joyce.
0:17:22 > 0:17:24And then you've got people like Helen who've come in -
0:17:24 > 0:17:28not only helping, but also sitting around and chatting.
0:17:28 > 0:17:30- That's always lovely, isn't it? - Yeah, yeah.
0:17:30 > 0:17:33- Have you enjoyed yourself today? - Yeah, it's been really good.
0:17:33 > 0:17:38It's lovely to meet ladies who've still got that spark, you know,
0:17:38 > 0:17:41even if they're a little bit older.
0:17:41 > 0:17:44It's something I always think is incredible.
0:17:44 > 0:17:46It's really inspirational, Bernice,
0:17:46 > 0:17:49because they think so many people sort of say,
0:17:49 > 0:17:51- "Ooh, I'm too old for this," or they sit at home.- Yeah.
0:17:51 > 0:17:53A lot of people think they're too old.
0:17:53 > 0:17:55That's the common theme here, you know?
0:17:55 > 0:17:58People get out every week and they do this.
0:17:58 > 0:18:00- So many people... - You're never too old.
0:18:00 > 0:18:04- Yeah, exactly.- Never too old!
0:18:04 > 0:18:05Come on, put it there.
0:18:05 > 0:18:09- I think all of us, the three of us, never too old.- No!
0:18:09 > 0:18:12That's Ena. Just shout Ena.
0:18:12 > 0:18:13On your left.
0:18:13 > 0:18:17It looks and smells absolutely delicious.
0:18:17 > 0:18:19The girls are still hard at it in the kitchen.
0:18:19 > 0:18:21Nearly everybody, now, has had their meal -
0:18:21 > 0:18:25and it's interesting because there's a real sense of pride,
0:18:25 > 0:18:26of ownership, you know?
0:18:26 > 0:18:29And the Elders have said they do need youngers to help them
0:18:29 > 0:18:31create what they've got here.
0:18:31 > 0:18:33You can see our volunteers are doing a sterling job -
0:18:33 > 0:18:35because I was worried - are we going to integrate?
0:18:35 > 0:18:37Are we going to get it right, this balance,
0:18:37 > 0:18:39this friendship that they have here?
0:18:39 > 0:18:43But I have to say, the early signs are good, aren't they?
0:18:45 > 0:18:46Now, Cherry, what do you think
0:18:46 > 0:18:49of our lovely volunteer here, both of them?
0:18:49 > 0:18:52- Have they done a good job?- Yeah. - Yeah?
0:18:52 > 0:18:54- You need people like that. - Very brisk.
0:18:54 > 0:18:58But at the end of the day, Cherry, I think we know who's in charge.
0:18:58 > 0:19:00Not me!
0:19:00 > 0:19:01THEY LAUGH
0:19:03 > 0:19:06So, Jennifer, your first experience, how's it been?
0:19:06 > 0:19:09- I have to say, you got completely stuck in straightaway.- Amazing!
0:19:09 > 0:19:11- Amazing.- Yeah?- Amazing.
0:19:11 > 0:19:15Cos, like, as soon as I met Mum, I just find my way.
0:19:15 > 0:19:17That was it. She just gave me the OK.
0:19:17 > 0:19:19Is this going to be a regular thing on a Monday?
0:19:19 > 0:19:21You can't get me away now.
0:19:24 > 0:19:27It was great we were able to help out at the centre,
0:19:27 > 0:19:30but it isn't about one day, is it?
0:19:30 > 0:19:32That volunteering work has to continue,
0:19:32 > 0:19:35so I'm delighted - thrilled, in fact -
0:19:35 > 0:19:38that not only did Jennifer really love that whole experience,
0:19:38 > 0:19:42but she's committed to doing it all over again in the future.
0:19:50 > 0:19:55I'm convinced if we can help to make Baggator a more inviting space,
0:19:55 > 0:19:58we can recreate the same kind of energy -
0:19:58 > 0:20:02and there's definitely a need for more local groups like Malcolm X.
0:20:05 > 0:20:08Bristol born and bred Eunice lives up the road from Baggator.
0:20:09 > 0:20:14Eunice met the love of her life Dennis in 1952.
0:20:15 > 0:20:18We met when we were 17.
0:20:18 > 0:20:21That was it, there was nobody else.
0:20:21 > 0:20:23And then we got married in '57.
0:20:24 > 0:20:26We had a wonderful life.
0:20:27 > 0:20:30We spent every minute of every day together.
0:20:30 > 0:20:33All sorts of different things we would do.
0:20:34 > 0:20:36Water was an adventure for Dennis.
0:20:36 > 0:20:38Whatever happened, we always went on water.
0:20:38 > 0:20:41We had boats, travelled everywhere.
0:20:41 > 0:20:44Germany, France,
0:20:44 > 0:20:46Switzerland, Austria,
0:20:46 > 0:20:48Belgium.
0:20:49 > 0:20:54All was wonderful until Dennis was diagnosed with a heart condition.
0:20:55 > 0:20:57One day early this year,
0:20:57 > 0:21:02Dennis very suddenly passed away at home while Eunice was with him.
0:21:02 > 0:21:04After 60 years sharing their lives,
0:21:04 > 0:21:07Eunice has had to get used to some big changes.
0:21:10 > 0:21:13You know, Eunice, I can't imagine what it's like after all these years
0:21:13 > 0:21:16of having a partner to share all these things with.
0:21:16 > 0:21:18How difficult is it,
0:21:18 > 0:21:22sort of getting back into the game now you're effectively on your own?
0:21:22 > 0:21:26I keep going, but I don't get that fun out of life.
0:21:26 > 0:21:27It is a big loss.
0:21:27 > 0:21:30There is just no other person there.
0:21:31 > 0:21:35I will wander from here into the kitchen
0:21:35 > 0:21:37to make myself a cup of tea,
0:21:37 > 0:21:40come back fully expecting to find him sat in the chair, still.
0:21:41 > 0:21:45- It's like losing half of yourself, really.- Mm.
0:21:45 > 0:21:48One half goes on, and the other half...
0:21:48 > 0:21:49isn't doing anything.
0:21:52 > 0:21:56When I do go out, I really do have to make an effort to talk to people.
0:21:56 > 0:21:58- Mm-hm.- Um...
0:21:58 > 0:22:03but it's something you have to get over really, day by day.
0:22:03 > 0:22:08I haven't got the circle of friends that we used to have before,
0:22:08 > 0:22:13that we could go out to maybe have a drink or a meal.
0:22:13 > 0:22:15All that side of it is gone.
0:22:15 > 0:22:19- It's lonely from the start of the day, really.- Mm-hm.
0:22:19 > 0:22:21You get up to an empty house.
0:22:21 > 0:22:24There's no-one around...
0:22:24 > 0:22:29and you sometimes wonder where life is really going.
0:22:29 > 0:22:31You're just totally isolated
0:22:31 > 0:22:36- for roughly 60 parts of the day for me, really.- Right.
0:22:36 > 0:22:40There must be so many people in the same position, as well.
0:22:40 > 0:22:41Yeah, I think there must be
0:22:41 > 0:22:44and if there were places around, you know,
0:22:44 > 0:22:48we could probably meet up together and go to these things.
0:22:48 > 0:22:51- Yes.- If there was a musical group around,
0:22:51 > 0:22:54I would enjoy that sort of thing.
0:22:54 > 0:22:56To make life more fun,
0:22:56 > 0:23:00if we could find something to fill that 60 parts,
0:23:00 > 0:23:03would you be interested in giving stuff a go if it appealed to you?
0:23:03 > 0:23:05Oh, yeah, I'd try anything once.
0:23:07 > 0:23:09That's good enough for me.
0:23:09 > 0:23:11If we can find a few people,
0:23:11 > 0:23:14Grenville will help to set up a group at Baggator...
0:23:16 > 0:23:18..but as I know, in order to do anything like this,
0:23:18 > 0:23:21we need a community hub that is up to scratch,
0:23:21 > 0:23:25and the people that are willing to give up a little bit of time
0:23:25 > 0:23:27in order to make it happen.
0:23:27 > 0:23:29- Hello, could I stop you for a couple of minutes?- Yeah, no worries.
0:23:29 > 0:23:31Have you ever volunteered for anything?
0:23:31 > 0:23:33We need people to get involved.
0:23:33 > 0:23:36We need people who can do all sorts of things.
0:23:36 > 0:23:37I can paint a fence really well.
0:23:37 > 0:23:39- Can you?- Yeah.- Yeah?- I like that.
0:23:39 > 0:23:41We'll use that one.
0:23:41 > 0:23:42Success!
0:23:43 > 0:23:46Three more enthusiastic volunteers.
0:23:46 > 0:23:49Nicki's joined us to talk about a brand-new programme
0:23:49 > 0:23:52that she's working on at the moment called People Power.
0:23:52 > 0:23:54We're looking for volunteers over the next few days,
0:23:54 > 0:23:55the next few weeks.
0:23:55 > 0:23:57We've got different projects
0:23:57 > 0:24:00and hopefully we're going to make a huge, huge difference.
0:24:09 > 0:24:11Now, I'm looking for Rob.
0:24:11 > 0:24:13- Hello!- Over here.
0:24:13 > 0:24:15- In the hat.- Thank you. Hard at work.
0:24:15 > 0:24:17- Rob.- Hi, how are you doing? - I've heard all about you.
0:24:17 > 0:24:20Apparently, you're the man with all the contacts.
0:24:20 > 0:24:22I know all the volunteers.
0:24:22 > 0:24:25So, what's going on here? Tell me more.
0:24:25 > 0:24:28This is going to be our new community hub,
0:24:28 > 0:24:30and the idea of the community hub
0:24:30 > 0:24:34is a central point for our volunteer network,
0:24:34 > 0:24:39and our volunteer network started from taking aid out to France
0:24:39 > 0:24:40for the refugees,
0:24:40 > 0:24:46and gradually we've expanded that into volunteering in Bristol.
0:24:46 > 0:24:48So, how long - when did you start volunteering
0:24:48 > 0:24:52and getting this extraordinary group of people together?
0:24:52 > 0:24:55This group, as we are now, are a year old this week.
0:24:55 > 0:24:58In France the situation out there was really bad.
0:24:58 > 0:24:59A few of us were sat at home
0:24:59 > 0:25:02watching what was unfolding on the telly
0:25:02 > 0:25:04and thought, "We've got to do something."
0:25:04 > 0:25:06And we just got a group of builders together,
0:25:06 > 0:25:08we went out there and we started building stuff.
0:25:08 > 0:25:11Building kitchens, communal areas, things like that.
0:25:11 > 0:25:13All the guys here all do the same thing.
0:25:13 > 0:25:16They're all working, they're all giving their time voluntary.
0:25:16 > 0:25:19They've all got jobs, they've all got lives
0:25:19 > 0:25:21that they take the time out to do,
0:25:21 > 0:25:24and whether that's in the evenings or weekends
0:25:24 > 0:25:27or just a half day here and a half day there,
0:25:27 > 0:25:29or somebody like Finn, who's working over here,
0:25:29 > 0:25:31he took months out.
0:25:31 > 0:25:33Went out to France and devoted his life for a period of time
0:25:33 > 0:25:35- to just working there. - That's extraordinary.
0:25:35 > 0:25:40I mean, you're doing it so successfully with such enthusiasm,
0:25:40 > 0:25:43but what does volunteering mean to you?
0:25:43 > 0:25:44To be honest, when I started it,
0:25:44 > 0:25:47I probably did it for a bit of self gratification,
0:25:47 > 0:25:48but once we got to France
0:25:48 > 0:25:51and we saw what life's like for people in genuine need,
0:25:51 > 0:25:54that all just goes out the window and you just forget about that,
0:25:54 > 0:25:58and then you're just doing it because you can't not do it.
0:25:58 > 0:26:02You have got the most amazing collection of people together -
0:26:02 > 0:26:04but we are looking for volunteers.
0:26:04 > 0:26:06- Yeah.- I'm hoping you're going to be to help.
0:26:06 > 0:26:09One of the projects that we're having to work on is Baggator,
0:26:09 > 0:26:12which is this fantastic community Centre in Easton
0:26:12 > 0:26:14which is already existing, it's up and running -
0:26:14 > 0:26:17however it needs work, it needs people to help
0:26:17 > 0:26:20to really do it over, and then we can extend it
0:26:20 > 0:26:22so it's not just the young people that already go there,
0:26:22 > 0:26:25but we can offer it to the wider community of Easton as well.
0:26:25 > 0:26:29- Yeah. Yeah, we can help.- I'm looking at you longingly, aren't I?!
0:26:29 > 0:26:31- Yeah - no, we can help, definitely. - Yeah?- Yeah. We can definitely help.
0:26:31 > 0:26:35So, we need people to paint, overhaul the garden,
0:26:35 > 0:26:36to really get involved.
0:26:36 > 0:26:38We've got the people here.
0:26:38 > 0:26:39This project's a six-week project.
0:26:39 > 0:26:42We've got plenty of time. We can take some people off of this,
0:26:42 > 0:26:45give you a hand, bring them back next week or the week after,
0:26:45 > 0:26:47- or however long you need. - That is music to my ears.
0:26:47 > 0:26:49You are the right person to help!
0:26:49 > 0:26:52- No problem.- I'm going to be listening to everything you say.
0:26:52 > 0:26:54- No problem. We can do this.- Great.
0:26:56 > 0:27:00- Right, I will see you later. - Brilliant.- Best of luck, guys.
0:27:00 > 0:27:01Thank you very much. Cheers.
0:27:01 > 0:27:02What a result!
0:27:02 > 0:27:04Good job, Nicki.
0:27:04 > 0:27:06So we've got the reinforcements we need -
0:27:06 > 0:27:09but leaving Baggator with a lasting legacy
0:27:09 > 0:27:11will take a bit more than a lick of paint.
0:27:11 > 0:27:13It's keeping the momentum of volunteering
0:27:13 > 0:27:16that will keep this place going.
0:27:16 > 0:27:17Paint it. Yeah.
0:27:17 > 0:27:19It's as simple as that!
0:27:24 > 0:27:27It's time to bring in the heavy metal.
0:27:28 > 0:27:30Don't you just love a big digger?!
0:27:30 > 0:27:32I love them!
0:27:45 > 0:27:48It's quite weird for us to try and get our head around
0:27:48 > 0:27:49sort of the layout of it all
0:27:49 > 0:27:51while the buildings are still up, you know?
0:27:51 > 0:27:53Because we've got stuff that - new cabins to go in there,
0:27:53 > 0:27:55Portakabins, ground works to be done.
0:27:55 > 0:27:57So it's good to be really interesting at the end of this,
0:27:57 > 0:27:59we'll be able to get an actual picture
0:27:59 > 0:28:00of how we're going to do this.
0:28:00 > 0:28:02It's a nice place to work with, as well.
0:28:02 > 0:28:03You know, it's a decent size.
0:28:03 > 0:28:05Unfortunately, the way the buildings are,
0:28:05 > 0:28:08- they've just been put in the wrong place.- Exactly.
0:28:08 > 0:28:10Not maximising the space.
0:28:10 > 0:28:12It won't take long to come down.
0:28:12 > 0:28:15Do you ever think of going into the world of design?
0:28:15 > 0:28:18- No!- Not just demolition, but that's brilliant.
0:28:18 > 0:28:20Demolition is design.
0:28:20 > 0:28:22A design to bring it down.
0:28:25 > 0:28:28This is going to transform the courtyard space.
0:28:28 > 0:28:31We've taken out the eyesore that was the condemned building,
0:28:31 > 0:28:35the old container and the dilapidated garage.
0:28:35 > 0:28:39It's all opening the space up and this is just what this place needed.
0:28:42 > 0:28:44You know what's lovely about this here?
0:28:44 > 0:28:45We've given a bit of life back to it.
0:28:45 > 0:28:48It's just brilliant, you know, that this will not finish.
0:28:50 > 0:28:52It's remarkable, but it's also quite scary
0:28:52 > 0:28:54because we actually can't turn back now.
0:28:54 > 0:28:56We've just got to keep moving.
0:28:57 > 0:29:01Oops. I hope we haven't knocked this down and can't finish it.
0:29:01 > 0:29:03Well, we all know you can't make an omelette
0:29:03 > 0:29:06without demolishing some eggs. Keep the faith, Mark.
0:29:07 > 0:29:09Onward and upward.
0:29:12 > 0:29:15Alongside the projects we've been involved with in Bristol,
0:29:15 > 0:29:18Martyn Ashton has been travelling far and wide
0:29:18 > 0:29:22meeting other inspiring volunteers and projects around the country.
0:29:22 > 0:29:24Today, he's in Newcastle.
0:29:25 > 0:29:28Nothing brings people together like music.
0:29:28 > 0:29:33Well, maybe food - but luckily enough, in here they do both.
0:29:33 > 0:29:34Let's check it out.
0:29:37 > 0:29:39He's come to visit a charity
0:29:39 > 0:29:41which regularly put on a food sharing event
0:29:41 > 0:29:43called Culture Kitchen.
0:29:44 > 0:29:46Well, the vibe in here is amazing.
0:29:46 > 0:29:49Culture Kitchen is all about meeting new people,
0:29:49 > 0:29:51so that's what I'm going to go and do.
0:29:52 > 0:29:54The local hero here is Nick.
0:29:54 > 0:29:56He understands the importance
0:29:56 > 0:29:59of getting people out in their community
0:29:59 > 0:30:02and integrating with other cultures.
0:30:02 > 0:30:03- Hiya, Nick.- Hi, Martyn. - How are you doing?
0:30:03 > 0:30:05Pleased to meet you. How's it going?
0:30:05 > 0:30:07Something smells good.
0:30:07 > 0:30:09So tell me all about it.
0:30:09 > 0:30:12We're a charity to work with people who are seeking asylum,
0:30:12 > 0:30:15people who are refugees, to help them become volunteers,
0:30:15 > 0:30:17and the main volunteering role they do
0:30:17 > 0:30:19is through this programme called Culture Kitchen
0:30:19 > 0:30:24where we're bringing people together from all over the world to cook food
0:30:24 > 0:30:26and to share it with the local communities.
0:30:26 > 0:30:31Before I started this I don't think I ever met anyone who was a refugee
0:30:31 > 0:30:34and that's really important to actually do that,
0:30:34 > 0:30:36to actually go out and meet the people in your community
0:30:36 > 0:30:39and learn from them - and if we can do that through food,
0:30:39 > 0:30:41which is something we all share,
0:30:41 > 0:30:43then that's a really simple way of bringing people together.
0:30:43 > 0:30:47And organising this - it's all voluntary on your behalf?
0:30:47 > 0:30:49- Yeah, absolutely.- This isn't your day job, to do this?
0:30:49 > 0:30:53No, no, not at all. Everyone involved is a volunteer.
0:30:53 > 0:30:55- Everybody?- Everyone. We don't have any paid staff.
0:30:55 > 0:30:59I'm really conscious of the fabulous smell that's coming from the kitchen
0:30:59 > 0:31:02and, as you said, there's some volunteers in the kitchen tonight
0:31:02 > 0:31:04that have gone to all the trouble of making this food.
0:31:04 > 0:31:06Yeah, it's all cooked with quite a lot of love.
0:31:06 > 0:31:09Well, I'd love to try some and get in and meet some of your guys.
0:31:09 > 0:31:11I don't know if there's any left, Martyn,
0:31:11 > 0:31:12but we'll go and have a look.
0:31:12 > 0:31:14- Let's find out.- Yeah, OK!
0:31:15 > 0:31:17Hi, Sara, how's it going?
0:31:17 > 0:31:18What's on the menu?
0:31:18 > 0:31:22- On the menu we have today pakora... - Yeah.
0:31:22 > 0:31:25..chana chaat, pizza and pakora...
0:31:25 > 0:31:26Can I have all of it?
0:31:26 > 0:31:28You can, certainly, yes.
0:31:30 > 0:31:33Sara came to the UK five years ago from Pakistan
0:31:33 > 0:31:36and felt the pressure settling into a new country.
0:31:38 > 0:31:39What got you into it at first?
0:31:39 > 0:31:41Why did you want to come here?
0:31:41 > 0:31:44First of all, I'm an asylum seeker,
0:31:44 > 0:31:47so I was told I'm not allowed to work.
0:31:47 > 0:31:48That was the main thing.
0:31:48 > 0:31:51I have done a Masters in business administration,
0:31:51 > 0:31:54and suddenly being told that you're not allowed to work,
0:31:54 > 0:31:55what do you do?
0:31:55 > 0:31:59Volunteering means I was able to spend my time somewhere positive.
0:31:59 > 0:32:01I had something to look forward to.
0:32:01 > 0:32:04You learn a lot through meeting other people
0:32:04 > 0:32:06and, you know, it just boosts your confidence,
0:32:06 > 0:32:08as well, and self-esteem.
0:32:08 > 0:32:10And tonight, this is somewhere where, obviously,
0:32:10 > 0:32:13you're coming across different cultures immediately.
0:32:13 > 0:32:16- That's the whole point. - Yes. When you come here,
0:32:16 > 0:32:20you see first thing - no religion, no race, no gender.
0:32:20 > 0:32:21Humanity comes first.
0:32:21 > 0:32:23- Just food.- Yeah, just food!
0:32:25 > 0:32:26Building up the confidence
0:32:26 > 0:32:29to integrate into a new country is vital -
0:32:29 > 0:32:31but can be very difficult.
0:32:31 > 0:32:35It's the first steps that make all the difference -
0:32:35 > 0:32:37as Yasir knows only too well.
0:32:38 > 0:32:40Everyone at Culture Kitchen has been a big support to you.
0:32:40 > 0:32:42How have they helped you?
0:32:42 > 0:32:44The people here, they are really helpful.
0:32:44 > 0:32:48A few years ago when I wanted to apply for university
0:32:48 > 0:32:51they helped me, like, what to do.
0:32:51 > 0:32:54They gave me, basically, direction about it.
0:32:54 > 0:32:56So you've got a degree now?
0:32:56 > 0:32:59Yes. Now I'm starting to do a Masters course.
0:32:59 > 0:33:01- You're doing your Masters? - Yeah, yeah, in microbiology.
0:33:01 > 0:33:04- In microbiology.- Yeah. - That's amazing. Congratulations.
0:33:04 > 0:33:06Thank you very much.
0:33:11 > 0:33:13My name's Aya and I'm 12 years old.
0:33:13 > 0:33:15I used to live in Syria.
0:33:15 > 0:33:18We've been here for two years.
0:33:18 > 0:33:22I'm learning how I can eat spicy things
0:33:22 > 0:33:26or try different food and I really enjoyed it.
0:33:26 > 0:33:29I thought the food was great. It's lovely, delicious.
0:33:29 > 0:33:34It's a good opportunity to talk to people from countries
0:33:34 > 0:33:37that are having lots of trouble.
0:33:37 > 0:33:41We're are all from other communities, aren't we?
0:33:41 > 0:33:44I think it breaks down barriers.
0:33:44 > 0:33:48I think it shows people that we may eat different food,
0:33:48 > 0:33:49but different food is fantastic
0:33:49 > 0:33:52and we all have something to share with each other,
0:33:52 > 0:33:55and to contribute to each other and we can gain so much.
0:33:55 > 0:33:57Everyone loves food, as well,
0:33:57 > 0:34:00- so it's the best way to bring people together.- It's the best way.
0:34:02 > 0:34:04It's about bringing people together
0:34:04 > 0:34:07from all ages and backgrounds to have fun.
0:34:13 > 0:34:16The vibe in this place is amazing.
0:34:16 > 0:34:17The band's just kicking off,
0:34:17 > 0:34:19I've had some lovely food in the dining room,
0:34:19 > 0:34:21met some great people.
0:34:21 > 0:34:23There's so much going for this place.
0:34:23 > 0:34:25We can really replicate some of it -
0:34:25 > 0:34:27and, Dave, I'm bringing you back a recipe book.
0:34:27 > 0:34:28You'll be able to use this.
0:34:34 > 0:34:36You know, I've been thinking about Eunice
0:34:36 > 0:34:38and the countless others like her -
0:34:38 > 0:34:42she just wants fun, someone to share time with -
0:34:42 > 0:34:45but can being around others really make a difference?
0:34:45 > 0:34:47I've called in an academic.
0:34:50 > 0:34:52Juliet's not just an award-winning designer,
0:34:52 > 0:34:55but her background in the mental health benefits of gardening
0:34:55 > 0:34:59have been inspirational as we tackle this project in Easton.
0:35:00 > 0:35:04As humans, how important is it for us to have relationships
0:35:04 > 0:35:05with other people?
0:35:05 > 0:35:10Well, I think human beings are hard-wired to be social animals.
0:35:10 > 0:35:15We really are built to be in relationships with each other
0:35:15 > 0:35:18and so if, through no fault of your own,
0:35:18 > 0:35:23you're unable to build and sustain the relationships that you need,
0:35:23 > 0:35:27it makes it more difficult to have a sense of who you are
0:35:27 > 0:35:29in relationship to other people -
0:35:29 > 0:35:34and perhaps that might start to erode your sense of value.
0:35:34 > 0:35:38How you are valued within the group, within the community.
0:35:38 > 0:35:41And do you think isolation can affect your health?
0:35:41 > 0:35:45I think often people can lose the motivation, really,
0:35:45 > 0:35:47- to look after themselves.- Yes.
0:35:47 > 0:35:52I think people who are isolated sometimes find it difficult
0:35:52 > 0:35:55to get the oomph to cook a meal,
0:35:55 > 0:35:58to go out and get some exercise and can become withdrawn,
0:35:58 > 0:36:02possibly depressed, and start to neglect themselves.
0:36:02 > 0:36:04It is possible, yes.
0:36:06 > 0:36:07Nicki has done it again,
0:36:07 > 0:36:11and found enough volunteers to run a trial social group
0:36:11 > 0:36:14at Baggator before we start work on the inside.
0:36:16 > 0:36:19If it's a success and we can find enough people willing to help
0:36:19 > 0:36:23with travel, cakes, a singsong and a dance,
0:36:23 > 0:36:25Grenville will make it a regular occasion.
0:36:27 > 0:36:30We just thought it would be nice to get everybody together,
0:36:30 > 0:36:31make it social.
0:36:31 > 0:36:33Hopefully a little bit of fun.
0:36:33 > 0:36:34We can do this.
0:36:34 > 0:36:36- Yeah, that's it! You see? - Yeah, that's it!
0:36:36 > 0:36:38There we go.
0:36:38 > 0:36:41Right, do you want a ringside seat, or do you want to be near the back?
0:36:41 > 0:36:43- I don't mind. - Let's have you at the front.
0:36:43 > 0:36:44Where's the front?
0:36:49 > 0:36:51Is there a party animal inside you, Susan?
0:36:51 > 0:36:54I suppose there is, yeah.
0:36:54 > 0:36:56Look at that cheeky smile!
0:36:57 > 0:37:00Tap, tap, elbow, turn...
0:37:00 > 0:37:02Eunice, how are you finding it?
0:37:02 > 0:37:03- Very good.- Have you enjoyed it?
0:37:03 > 0:37:07- Yeah.- Cos sometimes it's that first step, isn't it?
0:37:07 > 0:37:12- Yes.- And it's awkward and sometimes it's a lack of confidence.
0:37:12 > 0:37:14You don't want to make that first step,
0:37:14 > 0:37:17- but once you do and you open the door, you're in.- Yeah, yeah.
0:37:17 > 0:37:19You've got to push yourself.
0:37:19 > 0:37:21Everyone else has to be welcoming
0:37:21 > 0:37:24because even if you push yourself and no-one comes and says hello...
0:37:24 > 0:37:27- No, that's right.- It's difficult. - It feels awful.- Yes.
0:37:27 > 0:37:31- There was no problem here today. - There wasn't, was there?- No.
0:37:31 > 0:37:35What did we like most - the singing or the dancing...or the cake?
0:37:36 > 0:37:38Or the company?!
0:37:38 > 0:37:42- Or the company!- The company really. - Yeah?
0:37:42 > 0:37:45- It got you out?- Yeah. - Got you dancing and jigging?
0:37:45 > 0:37:47Yeah, jigging, that's right, yeah.
0:37:47 > 0:37:49I'm just wondering, you know,
0:37:49 > 0:37:54if anyone was looking at us now and thinking, "Should I go or not?"
0:37:54 > 0:37:56What would you say to them?
0:37:56 > 0:37:57- Ooh, yes.- Would you?- Yeah.
0:37:57 > 0:37:59- Make the effort and go? - Make the effort and go.
0:37:59 > 0:38:01Yes, make the effort to go, yeah.
0:38:01 > 0:38:04I don't go out a lot, you know, and it was good for me.
0:38:04 > 0:38:06- Was it?- Yeah.- You feel it was worth it?
0:38:06 > 0:38:08- Yes, I think it was worth it. - I'm so pleased.
0:38:08 > 0:38:10- That's brilliant.- We've been chatting all afternoon, haven't we?
0:38:10 > 0:38:12- I saw!- Yeah!
0:38:12 > 0:38:15- Firm friends, the three of you. You haven't stopped.- No!
0:38:15 > 0:38:19- At least we were together, you know. - That's right.
0:38:19 > 0:38:22Do you know, it's so lovely looking at Eunice making new friends.
0:38:22 > 0:38:25All of them, they instantly seemed to get on.
0:38:25 > 0:38:28There's a common ground, a common feeling,
0:38:28 > 0:38:32and it's so nice to see her relaxed, enjoying it...
0:38:32 > 0:38:34really being involved.
0:38:36 > 0:38:39And we all know there's nothing better
0:38:39 > 0:38:41than a good old Christmas singsong
0:38:41 > 0:38:43to get us in good spirits.
0:38:43 > 0:38:45# Rockin' around the Christmas tree
0:38:45 > 0:38:48# At the Christmas party hop
0:38:50 > 0:38:52# Mistletoe hung where you can see
0:38:52 > 0:38:56# Every couple tries to stop,
0:38:56 > 0:38:59# Rockin' around the Christmas tree
0:38:59 > 0:39:03# Let the Christmas spirit ring
0:39:03 > 0:39:06# Later we'll have some pumpkin pie
0:39:06 > 0:39:09# And we'll do some carolling
0:39:10 > 0:39:16# You will get a sentimental feeling when you hear
0:39:16 > 0:39:18# Voices singing, "Let's be jolly
0:39:18 > 0:39:23# Deck the halls with boughs of holly"
0:39:23 > 0:39:24# Rockin' around... #
0:39:24 > 0:39:26This afternoon hasn't needed a lot of people,
0:39:26 > 0:39:29but it's put the light on in a lot of lives,
0:39:29 > 0:39:31and that's good enough for me.
0:39:31 > 0:39:33# Everyone dancin' merrily
0:39:33 > 0:39:44# In the new old-fashioned way. #
0:39:44 > 0:39:46Yay! We did well, didn't we?
0:39:49 > 0:39:52We forget that our older population
0:39:52 > 0:39:57deserve, are capable and need some fun.
0:39:58 > 0:40:02Having seen how lonely and isolated Eunice has become
0:40:02 > 0:40:05and yet knowing how much fun and zest for life she has,
0:40:05 > 0:40:08I'm now more determined than ever
0:40:08 > 0:40:11to get the inside of Baggator improved -
0:40:11 > 0:40:15and excited to meet up with Grenville and Eunice again
0:40:15 > 0:40:18to see if it will become a regular date in the calendar.
0:40:23 > 0:40:26It's lovely to see you again, Eunice, and Grenville.
0:40:26 > 0:40:28How did you get on at Baggator?
0:40:28 > 0:40:29It was a brilliant afternoon.
0:40:29 > 0:40:31- Very good.- Really?
0:40:31 > 0:40:33Really enjoyed it, yes, yes.
0:40:33 > 0:40:36And what was it that you liked about it?
0:40:36 > 0:40:38- Company, mainly.- Mm-hm.
0:40:38 > 0:40:41- It was nice to have people around that you could chatter to.- Yeah.
0:40:41 > 0:40:44You know, I've been on my own for some months now,
0:40:44 > 0:40:49and it was nice to have people of my own age around for the afternoon.
0:40:49 > 0:40:55Find out what they enjoy doing and whether I could help them at all.
0:40:55 > 0:40:58- Yes.- And the table that I was on, you know,
0:40:58 > 0:41:01we were quite a chatty little table most of the afternoon.
0:41:01 > 0:41:04Is it something you'd like to see happen on a more permanent basis?
0:41:04 > 0:41:06Yes, yes.
0:41:06 > 0:41:09Cos I think you could strike up a permanent friendship,
0:41:09 > 0:41:10then, with people.
0:41:10 > 0:41:12I think no matter what your age,
0:41:12 > 0:41:14you can end up having lots of acquaintances
0:41:14 > 0:41:18- and not that many friends, can't you?- That's right.
0:41:18 > 0:41:20You get to know people as you're walking along the street
0:41:20 > 0:41:24- and give them a wave, but they're not people that you know.- No.
0:41:24 > 0:41:26You need to be talking to them over a cup of tea,
0:41:26 > 0:41:28or a cup of coffee, or something like that.
0:41:28 > 0:41:32Did you find you were meeting people in a similar position to yourself?
0:41:32 > 0:41:33Yes, yes.
0:41:33 > 0:41:37Several of them on the table were in the same position as me, yes.
0:41:37 > 0:41:40- That was useful conversations, you know?- Yeah.
0:41:40 > 0:41:41That was a good way round.
0:41:41 > 0:41:44And there's always strength in solidarity, isn't it? And...
0:41:44 > 0:41:47There is, yes, and they were very friendly people.
0:41:47 > 0:41:49- They were very friendly people. - Oh, good, good.
0:41:49 > 0:41:52So, Grenville, if we could get the volunteers,
0:41:52 > 0:41:54is this something you could see
0:41:54 > 0:41:57that we could do on a more permanent basis at Baggator?
0:41:57 > 0:42:01Oh, yeah, without question - and singing's fun as well, isn't it?
0:42:01 > 0:42:04Just to join together and have a good old singsong, so yes.
0:42:04 > 0:42:07If we can get the volunteers, we could be singing regularly.
0:42:07 > 0:42:10- That's right, yes. - And singing your favourite songs.
0:42:10 > 0:42:12Singing my favourite songs!
0:42:12 > 0:42:14Most of which I can never remember the names of,
0:42:14 > 0:42:17- but I know the tunes when they come up, yes.- Yes.
0:42:17 > 0:42:19You can't be miserable when you're singing, can you?
0:42:19 > 0:42:22No, you can't. No, no.
0:42:22 > 0:42:24So we'll start a session at Baggator.
0:42:24 > 0:42:27- Oh, good.- Yeah. - I shall be there.- Good.
0:42:27 > 0:42:29Right, we'd better get some more volunteers then.
0:42:29 > 0:42:32Nicki! What was the catering like?
0:42:34 > 0:42:38Next time, Mark gets hands-on as we start rebuilding our community hub.
0:42:39 > 0:42:42This is an absolutely brilliant country that we live in.
0:42:42 > 0:42:44People will just help.
0:42:44 > 0:42:46When you need it, they're there.
0:42:46 > 0:42:51Martyn Ashton experiences the life enhancing work volunteers do...
0:42:51 > 0:42:52This feels awesome!
0:42:52 > 0:42:53HE LAUGHS
0:42:53 > 0:42:56- Wow!- Yes!
0:42:56 > 0:43:00..and we give a vital community playground a new lease of life.