Matthew Barker, Centre Manager
Matthew has been the centre manager since September 2015
"I adore the work that I do, and am lucky to work have worked with such a fantastic group of people over the last 10 years. It never stops surprising me seeing local people so passionate about their area, and so willing to share so much of themselves in supporting others.
I have many highlights of my time at Westcroft, registering as a charity was of course a significant moment and every year since has seen significant developments which stand out, always looking at what is next and how we improve further is a constant motivation. Perhaps the biggest highlight for me personally was raising over £3500 for us in 2023 by completing the 256 mile Cape Wrath Trail, my photo is at the end of this challenge, a very proud moment indeed"
"I adore the work that I do, and am lucky to work have worked with such a fantastic group of people over the last 10 years. It never stops surprising me seeing local people so passionate about their area, and so willing to share so much of themselves in supporting others.
I have many highlights of my time at Westcroft, registering as a charity was of course a significant moment and every year since has seen significant developments which stand out, always looking at what is next and how we improve further is a constant motivation. Perhaps the biggest highlight for me personally was raising over £3500 for us in 2023 by completing the 256 mile Cape Wrath Trail, my photo is at the end of this challenge, a very proud moment indeed"
Linda Duffy, Westcroft Community Development Officer
Liz Duffy
I've had a rough few years with my health both physically and mentally and have realised the importance good support plays in recovering from any problem.
I was lucky to have great support from my family but I've also been going to Westcroft as a service user and this has also helped. It's been nice to pop in for a cuppa and a chat. I've also attended a couple of cookery projects which have helped me discover a new found interest in cooking. I am almost 100% vegan now so being able to cook healthy, tasty food is important. I've also been attending an exercise class at Westcroft on a Tuesday which I love doing! I'm doing the exercises with a great bunch of people and the instructor is an amazing lady! All these activities have been provided by the centre free of charge! And I have decided to volunteer because I would like to give something back and say thank you for the help I've received.
I am relatively new to volunteering and tend to help out on a "as and when" required basis. I particularly enjoyed taking part in the Film Club afternoon. It was a lovely event and the children loved the film. I worked as a Teaching Assistant for 13 years in a primary school and have always found engaging with children both fun and rewarding.
I generally tend to avoid bucket lists. I'm definitely not an adrenaline junkie and have no desire to jump out of a plane or do a bungee jump! But I'm a keen walker. I have a little dog - Percy and I love to start my day with a walk in the park and a nice coffee with my sister! My sister and I have discussed walking from Manchester to Hebden Bridge along the Rochdale Canal. That is probably the first challenge I'd like to complete, so watch this space!
I was lucky to have great support from my family but I've also been going to Westcroft as a service user and this has also helped. It's been nice to pop in for a cuppa and a chat. I've also attended a couple of cookery projects which have helped me discover a new found interest in cooking. I am almost 100% vegan now so being able to cook healthy, tasty food is important. I've also been attending an exercise class at Westcroft on a Tuesday which I love doing! I'm doing the exercises with a great bunch of people and the instructor is an amazing lady! All these activities have been provided by the centre free of charge! And I have decided to volunteer because I would like to give something back and say thank you for the help I've received.
I am relatively new to volunteering and tend to help out on a "as and when" required basis. I particularly enjoyed taking part in the Film Club afternoon. It was a lovely event and the children loved the film. I worked as a Teaching Assistant for 13 years in a primary school and have always found engaging with children both fun and rewarding.
I generally tend to avoid bucket lists. I'm definitely not an adrenaline junkie and have no desire to jump out of a plane or do a bungee jump! But I'm a keen walker. I have a little dog - Percy and I love to start my day with a walk in the park and a nice coffee with my sister! My sister and I have discussed walking from Manchester to Hebden Bridge along the Rochdale Canal. That is probably the first challenge I'd like to complete, so watch this space!
Ciara Carey
Molly-Ann Laughlin Duffy
Glennis Mitchell
Glennis works on admin and reception, delivers a card making group, covers the centre including opening and closing when needed. Volunteered for 6+ years.
Estelita Avilez
Estelita delivers 2 different sewing groups each week, currently working in partnership with the Burnage heritage project on a craft/sewing project to be displayed at the central library. Delivers kids craft activities in the Summer. Covers reception, covers the centre including opening and closing when needed. Volunteered for 6+ years
Sheila Lindley
Sheila is a Quid’s In volunteer. Volunteered for 5+ years.
Maureen White
Linda recently started about 4 weeks ago, very passionate about Burnage, getting involved in the delivery of many sessions. Volunteered for 4 weeks.
Jonnny Butcher
Jonny provides general support around the centre. Volunteered for 6+ years.
Liz Duffy
Julie is a Quids In volunteer and general support. Volunteered for 2 + years.