A local pastor has raised £1,450 following his 180-mile cycle ride from Bristol to Bakewell for a local charity that supports families in need in Sharrow, Nether Edge and Lowfield.
Giles Holloway, 47, completed this sponsored cycle ride for Family Voice on May 2. The charity, which is based in Nether Edge, aims to support and empower local families, provide advice and positive opportunities to those most in need. It helps to reduce social isolation through their various weekly activity groups.
Mr Holloway is a Sharrow resident and started volunteering for Family Voice during lockdown when he was on furlough. “I was so impressed with the work they were doing and the support they were giving that I thought I would do a charity bike ride.”
Mr Holloway was accompanied by a different friends along the way and then met his family in Bakewell to celebrate. “We uncorked the champagne in Bakewell,” he said.
Family Voice promotes happy and safe family life and work with around 300 people in the area. The community group supports families of diverse backgrounds in a culturally sensitive and inclusive way. The money Mr Holloway raised will help them to continue to do the work they do.
Nasim Begum, from Family Voice, said: “We would like to thank Giles for dedicating his free time with the cycle ride and raising a huge amount of money for us. This donation will help us support the vulnerable families that are facing so many hardships at the moment.”
With free exercise classes, dance classes, art and relaxation classes, Family Voice aims to provide a hub for local families to bond with others who have shared experiences. Family Voice host celebrations for those they support to enjoy. They had a party for International Women’s day in March. And they held an Eid celebration yesterday.
They also have more practical courses such as English for driving theory as well as food hygiene classes. Ammi’s Kitchen, their small social enterprise, provides jobs for local mums, and a way to share their culture though food.
Kate West from Family Voice highlighted that the cost of living crisis has meant a rise in the cost of energy bills and food. “Families are under a lot more financial stress this stress often results in physical and mental poor health. We are busier than ever and really appreciate all the people that support us,” she continued.
You can support Family Voice by making a donation to Giles’s fundraiser:
