Greg gets volunteer recognition

National Volunteer Week (1st - 7th June) is highlighting the exceptional role volunteers play in the community. Greg Cooper of Seaford is an inspirational example of a volunteer who is determined to help other people get more from life.

Greg, who has a visual impairment and learning disabilities, lives in a flat in the grounds of SeeAbility’s Barclay House in Seaford. Greg likes to get out and about and part of his time is spent as a volunteer for Southdown Housing, a local care home which supports people with profound learning disabilities. Greg has taken his passion for baking cakes to the residents and teaches them – chocolate and lemon drizzle are amongst the favourites!

Greg comments
 
“I really like baking and making cakes with everyone at Southdown. I look forward to my Wednesday mornings and the people there look forward to spending time with me too! When I came they didn’t know much about making cakes but now everyone joins in.”

For several years Greg lived at SeeAbility’s Barclay House and thanks to support from key workers and the rehab team, he now has developed the skills he needs to fully enjoy his independence. Greg now lives in a flat within the grounds of SeeAbilitys Barclay House and can get around on his own, often travelling by local bus. 

Tim Partridge, SeeAbility’s National Volunteer Manager comments,

“National Volunteer Week is all about celebrating the fantastic contribution volunteers make across the UK. Greg has a genuine talent to help others and he has shown that he has the commitment to add something special to other people’s lives. Everyone at SeeAbility is very proud of his achievements.”