Maureen Bond founded a luncheon club in a Norwich church 30 years ago and has been awarded a BEM the Queen’s New Year Honours List for her services to the club and her local community.
Maureen founded the club at Dereham Road Baptist Church in 1985 and it is now based at Chapel Field Methodist Church. It offers elderly people the opportunity to enjoy home-cooked food and companionship. The club has grown over the years and has been described as a ‘hub of laughter’ and is greatly appreciated by around 50 people who attend every Monday to socialise and enjoy a nutritious meal.
She was awarded the British Empire Medal (BEM) for her services to the club. Maureen not only uses her cooking skills, but also organises regular activities for members of the club to take part in each week, including talks, music and outings. Her involvement requires a lot of time and energy but Maureen is committed to the community that has built up around the club over the years. “I absolutely love what I do,” she said.
Many local residents use the service, which is made possible by Maureen and a team of other volunteers from the Christian community. Most members of the lunch club live in the local neighbourhood and are referrals from Social Services, enabling Maureen and her team to have a vital impact on people who might otherwise be lonely and isolated.
Pictured: Dishing up; Maureen (right) and volunteers with Simon Wright MP
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