People in Winchester who are disabled, lack mobility or experience poor mental health, receive much-needed help from teams of volunteers from Community First. Without this vital support, many people would be left isolated, on their own unable to leave their homes.
With more than 1,000 volunteers, 450 partner organisations, and strong collaborations with local authorities and the NHS, Community First is making a real difference across the Winchester district and wider Hampshire, improving quality of life through essential services and support for voluntary groups. The charity adapts its services to meet demand, from keeping community hubs open to providing vital transport, mobility, and specialist trauma counselling.
Winchester Healthy Walks are free walking groups led by friendly volunteers, which give people an opportunity to get moving, enjoy the outdoors, and meet others. Everyone is welcome and can participate in a variety of walks lasting from 30 to 90 minutes, improving their physical health and mental well-being. For those who find it difficult to get around, Connect Winchester and Shopmobility are a vital lifeline. The Connect door-to-door transport service is a huge help for anyone who can’t easily use or access public transport. It’s wheelchair accessible, and medical proof isn’t required – anyone can sign up and book a ride. Many elderly and disabled locals rely on it to stay independent, and children with mobility and sensory issues use the service to get to school safely. In Winchester city centre, Shopmobility scooters and wheelchairs can be hired for the day to get around the city or delivered to home for longer-term hire, to support independent living. With public transport services under pressure, affordable and reliable community transport has never been more important.
Another crucial service is START (Sexual Trauma & Abuse Restorative Therapies). In partnership with the Police and Crime Commissioner for Hampshire & Isle of Wight, START offers specialist counselling for survivors of sexual abuse and assault. Beyond counselling, the service provides a helpline, self-help tools, and educational resources. The effects of trauma can be devastating, and access to confidential, professional support is critical for recovery. START ensures that no one has to face these challenges alone, offering help without the need for a professional referral.
Community First supports local families through the Local Children’s Partnership. Working with Hampshire County Council and various organisations, the LCP creates a safer, more supportive environment for young people, through family support programmes and training initiatives.
Keeping these services running isn’t easy. Government funding is under serious strain, with grants being cut or reduced, even as demand for support is rising. Charities like Community First are stepping in to fill the gaps left by overstretched resources, making sure communities stay connected and people aren’t left without.
To keep its services going, Community First is looking at new ways to work with partners and local groups. It has been part of Winchester for years, not only providing essential services but supporting initiatives like the warm hub at the Carroll Centre in Stanmore and charities like The Beacon and Trinity Homeless. With so many people facing tough times, whether it’s financial struggles or feeling alone, Community First is there to help, but it needs the Winchester community’s help too. Volunteering or donating is a simple way to make a big impact and keep these vital services going.
Community First operates across Winchester, East Hampshire, Fareham, Havant, New Forest, Basingstoke & Deane, Gosport, and North & Mid Hampshire.
For more information visit cfirst.org.uk. To learn more about volunteering opportunities, visit volunteerfirst.co.uk
