More than 40 Gorbals locals will sit down to celebrate the hard work and achievements of their volunteering in the community, from clearing up the streets to feeding the community and much more besides.

NGHA tenant Veronica volunteers as part of the community litter-pick group which meet every four weeks to clean up the Gorbals.

She said: “Living in the high flats you see things in a different way from just walking around and the amount of rubbish blowing into our river is getting worse.

“So instead of just moaning about it I decided to see if it was bothering other people too. Aye it does! After a first litter pick with Keep Scotland Beautiful, I’m delighted we now have our own group in action in the Gorbals.”

The lunch falls on National Volunteers Week, which runs from 3rd to 9th June 2024, and ties in with this year’s theme of celebration to mark the 40th anniversary of the campaign.

NGHA’s community co-ordinator, Michael Fullerton, said: “We wanted to use the opportunity of Volunteers Week to give thanks to all those who give up their time, knowledge, and expertise to make the Gorbals a better place. We are fortunate to have a local community who care passionately about the area and are keen to participate.

“Each person makes a vital contribution to the Association and the area more widely, so we are pleased to be able to recognise this at our Volunteers’ Lunch.”

NGHA welcomes all tenants and residents to Be A Part Of Something, encouraging local people to get involved with the work of the Association in whatever capacity they can. This can be something small, from sharing views online and in surveys, to a bigger commitment like a role within the Tenants Panel or even Management Committee.

Association tenant Alina enjoys being part of the Tenant’s Panel and Oatlands Residents Group to express her views and be involved in any major changes to the area.

Alina said: “I think this is a great opportunity for us tenants to be involved in the decision-making process, discussing the improvement of the condition of our housing, services and community.

“I hope we can make our community better by listening and making important decisions.”

Those who are interested in volunteering or finding out more, are encouraged to contact NGHA’s tenant participation officer Susan Burn on 0141 429 3900 or via email susan@newgorbalsha.org.uk.