Phoenix Community Centre

Volunteering in the community

by Becky Purnell

"I grew up in Brighton and Hove. As a single parent, I felt quite isolated, and couldn't see the way back to work. I moved to Phoenix estate 5 years ago. This is the first time I have lived in social housing. Having affordable decent housing and a community worker, I got involved in volunteering in the community by helping to establish a boys' Sunday league football team. I also started a Women in Action training programme.Two years ago I started working part time at the Phoenix Community Centre.

I am now working full-time and the centre is really busy. Being near the town centre attracts many different people. The people that use the centre are from many different cultures and backgrounds, this is reflected in the mixture of groups meeting at the centre including carer and toddler groups, a women's choir, African dance, martial arts, and community IT courses. The Phoenix area now has Neighbourhood Renewal funding and I have been developing activities for residents including children's art class, yoga and keep fit."