Stagecoach workers show their green fingers to support Age UK allotment initiative
“Days like this show that small actions can make a big difference”
Stagecoach Sunderland employees swapped their usual duties for wellies and gardening gloves to lend a helping hand to Age UK Sunderland.
Five member of staff from the bus operator's Sunderland depot on North Bridge Street volunteered their time at Age UK Sunderland’s allotment in Houghton-le-Spring, helping to prepare the valuable community space for the winter months and the growing season ahead.
The team, which consisted of Michael Emmet, Driving Excellence Lead Trainer; Maxine Errington, PA to the Directors; Danielle Longhorn, Driver; Lee Harrison, Engineer; and David Yates, Engineer, worked together on a range of practical jobs, including relocating vegetable beds, building new compost bins from recycled pallets, trimming bushes and grass, removing weeds and turning over soil.
The allotment provides Age UK Sunderland members with an opportunity to enjoy gardening, connect with nature and spend time outdoors, making it an important space for the local community.
For Michael Emmet, who lives in Sunderland, the opportunity to give something back on his doorstep was particularly meaningful.
He said: “It was a really humbling and rewarding day for all of us. Being able to step away from our day-to-day roles and give something back to a community organisation right here on our doorstep was incredibly pleasing.
“Seeing how much this space means to Age UK Sunderland members really brought home the positive impact that volunteering can have.
“What stood out most was the teamwork. Everyone got stuck in, regardless of their usual job role, and we could see the difference we were making throughout the day
“We weren’t just tidying an allotment, we were helping to create a space that people can continue to enjoy, learn from and take pride in. It was fantastic to be part of.”
On Wednesday (September 9) Stagecoach were one of the organisations which signed up to Washington Mind’s Stand up to Suicide Charter, promoting mental wellbeing in the workplace.
Getting outdoors, being physically active, socialising with colleagues and taking a break from the normal working environment provided an added benefit to a day focused on helping others.
Steve Walker, Managing Director for Stagecoach North East said: “Days like this show that small actions can make a big difference. As Stagecoach, we’re proud to operate right at the heart of everyday life in Sunderland, and we’re delighted that our team could give their time, energy and skills to help Age UK Sunderland prepare this wonderful space for the seasons ahead.
“It was also a great opportunity for our colleagues to get outdoors, be active and spend time together away from their usual working environment, supporting both our community and their own wellbeing.”
Tracy Collins CEO of Age UK Sunderland added: “It is fantastic that companies such as Stagecoach give something back to the charitable sector and contribute to the local community in this way, we are very grateful for their support.”