About Us

Background

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When the COVID-19 pandemic hit in 2020, Woking witnessed the formation of the Knaphill, St John's, and Brookwood (KStJB) Volunteers Support Group. Led by founder Sonal Sher, this dedicated group of volunteers rose to the occasion, offering essential aid and support during these challenging times.

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Formation and Early Days

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In March 2020, before the UK government implemented lockdown measures, Sonal recognized that the UK was going to follow the rest of Europe into a lockdown.  There was need for a coordinated effort to assist the vulnerable and isolated members of the community. Through various communication channels, including leafletting by volunteers, social media, local newspapers, and word-of-mouth, Sonal spread the word, calling for the local community to contribute their time, skills, and resources. A framework of support and a helpline were created in order to deliver, coordinate and respond to the crisis.

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The Work of the Support Group

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The KStJB Volunteers Support Group focused on various initiatives:

• Grocery and Medication Deliveries: Volunteers collaborated with local supermarkets, pharmacies, and food banks to ensure the delivery of groceries and essential supplies to vulnerable individuals and families.

• Phone Support and Befriending: Volunteers made regular check-in calls to combat isolation and provide emotional support to those feeling lonely or anxious.

• Prescription Collection and Delivery: The group organized a service to collect and deliver prescriptions to individuals unable to visit the pharmacy due to health concerns or mobility issues.

• Lockdown Library: Recognizing the importance of access to reading materials during the lockdown, the support group opened a Lockdown Library, providing books for community members to borrow and enjoy while adhering to safety guidelines.

• Art Kits Donation: Understanding the significance of creativity during challenging times, the group donated Art Kits to children and families, enabling them to engage in artistic activities at home.

• Sonal's Birthday Donations: Sonal fundraised for her birthday in 2020 and used the funds to create (with help from volunteers) and donate huge goody hampers to the NHS, expressing gratitude to the frontline healthcare workers.

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Community Outreach and Well-being

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In addition to the essential services provided, the KStJB group organized various outreach activities to uplift spirits and maintain a sense of togetherness:

• Online Violin Recital: The group arranged an online music event, featuring a local musician to bring joy and entertainment to community members in the comfort of their homes.

• Online Quizzes: Online quizzes were organized, encouraging participation and friendly competition among residents, providing a fun and engaging way to connect with one another.
• Letter and card writing: These were dropped off by volunteers and written by residents who were unable to help in other ways. These letters were appreciated by everyone who received them. 

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Impact and Recognition

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The impact of the KStJB Volunteers Support Group was significant. They provided crucial support to hundreds of residents, completed thousands of tasks and made thousands of phone calls during the darkest days of the pandemic, alleviating feelings of vulnerability and isolation. Their dedication earned them several accolades, nominations and awards, including the BBC Make a Difference Community Group Award, and recognition for the founder, Sonal Sher from the Lord Lieutenant of Surrey for Community service in 2022. 

The group's remarkable work and community initiatives received attention in the news media. Local newspapers and the BBC covered their efforts, highlighting the selflessness and resilience of the volunteers. The group's outreach activities, including the Lockdown Library, Art Kits donation, and Sonal's Birthday Donations, were widely acknowledged and appreciated by the community.

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Continued Service and Community Resilience

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The volunteer group has now adapted its support and formed into a registered Mental Health and well-being charity, GIVE, which continues to provide a range of services to the local community. 

The Knaphill St John's and Brookwood Volunteers Support Group is a shining example of how communities can come together to support one another during difficult times. Their work has made a real difference in the lives of so many people, and they continue to inspire others to volunteer and give back to their communities.