As part of Volunteers’ Week, we’re celebrating the incredible people who give their time to support others.

At Plungington Community Centre, we’re lucky to have a dedicated mother-and-daughter team who’ve been making a difference to local families for six years.

Karen and Zoe run the Play and Stay group for children under five – a warm, welcoming space for children to play, learn, and connect while parents and carers find support and friendship.

The group started with a personal mission. Zoe’s children had allergies, and at the time, there was no local provision that catered for their needs. Recognising a gap in support, Zoe and Karen launched what was initially an anti-allergen group, a safe space for children with allergies to play freely. Over the years, it grew into a thriving, inclusive playgroup that now welcomes families from across the community every week.

Karen previously ran a different playgroup which sadly closed, but she knew how important it was to keep something going locally. “There was still a real need for something in the area,” Karen says. “It’s not just about play, it’s about giving families a space to meet, and helping young children develop social skills.”

For both Karen and Zoe, volunteering has been a hugely rewarding experience. “We’ve met so many people, and it’s lovely to see the difference we’re making. It’s about more than just play, it’s a lifeline for some families,” says Zoe.

And the benefits go both ways. “We get real joy from seeing the children enjoying themselves,” adds Karen. “We’re proud to be part of something that’s there for the community.”

When asked what advice they’d give to anyone thinking about volunteering, Karen is clear: “Definitely do it. But make sure it’s something you want to commit to – consistency is key when you’re supporting families.”
Zoe agrees: “If you have time to spare and are passionate about what you’re doing – go for it!”