‘Care for the Community’ volunteers honoured

Published: Thursday, 7th October 2021

On Friday 1 October, Sevenoaks District Council hosted an event to thank the amazing ‘Care for the Community’ volunteers who helped vulnerable residents throughout the pandemic.

Nearly 200 guests attended the afternoon tea at the St Clere Estate in Kemsing, owned by local businessperson Eliza Ecclestone. In March 2020, Eliza came to Sevenoaks District Council with the idea of starting a community volunteer programme.

Since then, the Council recruited almost 1,500 volunteers from around the District who supported 1,400 at risk residents.

The event was funded and hosted by Sevenoaks District Council Chairman, Cllr Diana Esler.

Cllr Esler says: “We owe so much to these amazing volunteers. Throughout the pandemic, they helped elderly and shielding residents obtain food and medicine as well as being a friendly voice to chat to on the phone. This free service was vital to our most vulnerable residents and we know how grateful they were to have help during a difficult time.

“We wanted to honour these caring individuals who gave up their free time for others by hosting a special event just for them. The volunteers were treated to a cream tea, a magician and music from a professional singer.

“The event was huge success, despite the torrential rain! We’d like to thank Eliza for allowing us to use the beautiful St Clere Estate as the backdrop for our afternoon.”