Our new teammate, Holly, joined us and dove straight into the Govan Unity Outreach Project, where she made quite a splash! (Sorry, I couldn’t resist.)

A previous blog summarised the whole team effort, with Marketa and Jennifer targeting individuals within the Govan community (and successfully, too!). However, it was Holly who was primarily responsible for reaching out to other agencies. This strengthened our connections, client and volunteer base, and the support network that we can signpost our clients to. So, I put her in the hot seat to find out more ...

Q: New team member - tell us a bit about yourself:
A: Hi, I’m Holly! I’m a recent graduate in business and management from the University of Glasgow with a passion for empowering the community and helping others. I love baking cakes and crocheting in my spare time.

Q:What attracted you to the Govan Unity Outreach Project?
A: I could see the effects of the pandemic on my own family members and wanted to help others who were struggling with loneliness and isolation. There’s something heart-warming about connecting people and building their confidence at such a challenging time!

Q: What did you find most rewarding about the project?
A: For me, it was eye opening to see the loneliness and isolation in Glasgow and be a part of changing that by helping those that are most vulnerable.

Q: What was the biggest challenge you faced and was it something you could overcome?
A: A big part of my job is outreach - partnering with other charities and organisations in the Govan and ward 5 area to find individuals who are vulnerable. As most people are working from home, it was sometimes difficult to get in contact with vital organisations and make them aware of our services. With a bit of research and a lot of phone calling - I overcame that hurdle pretty quickly.

Q: In hindsight, was the whole project what you expected?
A: It was great being able to see the impact my work was having first hand. I think a big part of the project which I didn’t realise would be so fruitful was partnering with other organisations - these contacts can be used in the future for other projects and have a long term impact on our work in the community.

Q: What takeaway from this experience will you use in the rest of your time with us?
A: It’s widened my eyes to the scale of the loneliness problem in Glasgow, and in the UK. I didn’t realise how much the issue affected all ages, backgrounds and abilities and I am excited to continue my work with the No1 Befriending Agency and continue to help those who are affected.

And it goes without saying, we are very excited to have her here, too.