Hailsham Town Council is appealing for volunteers to support the popular Railway Club, a weekly social group that has become a valued lifeline for older residents experiencing loneliness and social isolation.
Since launching in January 2025, the Railway Club has gone from strength to strength, providing a welcoming space where people aged 55 and over can meet new friends, enjoy a chat over refreshments and take part in a wide variety of activities in a relaxed and friendly environment.
Supported by Hailsham Town Council, the club meets every Wednesday from 10am to 1pm on the lower floor of the Station Youth Centre in Western Road. Sessions are free to attend and are open to anyone aged 55 or over, with voluntary donations towards refreshments welcomed.
The club offers much more than tea and coffee. Regular activities include quizzes, games, competitions, guest speakers, barbecues, picnics and singalong film screenings, creating opportunities for members to build friendships, improve their wellbeing and remain active within the local community.
To help the Railway Club continue to grow, organisers are now looking to recruit additional volunteers to assist during the weekly three-hour sessions.
Volunteer roles are varied and rewarding, with duties including welcoming visitors, chatting with members, serving refreshments, helping to organise games and activities, and assisting with clearing away at the end of each session. Volunteers can give as much or as little time as they are able, whether attending occasionally or on a regular basis.
The Railway Club is fully accessible and welcomes wheelchair users and people with mobility scooters, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the social activities on offer.
Councillor Anne Marie Ricketts, Chair of the Town Council’s Communities Committee and co-organiser of the project, said: “The Railway Club has become much more than a weekly coffee morning. It’s a place where friendships are formed, confidence is rebuilt and people know they’ll always receive a warm welcome. For many of our members, it’s the highlight of their week.”
“We’re now looking for more volunteers to help us continue that success. You don’t need any special qualifications – just a friendly personality, a willingness to chat and a few hours to spare. It’s an incredibly rewarding role and a wonderful opportunity to make a genuine difference to someone’s life while becoming part of a fantastic team.”
Project co-organiser, Councillor Anne Blake-Coggins, added: “The response to the Railway Club has been heartwarming, with members regularly telling us how much they enjoy coming along each week. As attendance continues to grow, we’d love to welcome more volunteers who can help us maintain the friendly, inclusive atmosphere that makes the club so special.”
“Volunteering doesn’t just benefit those who attend the club – it’s equally rewarding for those who give their time. Whether you’re serving refreshments, joining in with activities or simply having a conversation with someone, every volunteer plays an important part in helping to combat loneliness and strengthen our community.”
Anyone interested in becoming a Railway Club volunteer, or who would like more information about the role, is invited to email cllr.annemarie.ricketts@hailsham-tc.gov.uk or call 07837 208877.
Terry Hall, COMMUNICATIONS OFFICER
Hailsham Town Council, Market Street, Hailsham, East Sussex, BN27 2AE
Telephone: 01323 841702 | Email: terry.hall@hailsham-tc.gov.uk