Following on from the huge success of our Integrating Sutton project, supporting the Hong Kong community arriving and settling in the London Borough of Sutton (2019-2024), Volunteer Centre Sutton was delighted to run a short-term project, supporting Hong Kongers into volunteering.
112 people registered, with over 65% taking part in at least 1 activity. Hong Kongers contributed 332 volunteering hours across 11 different types of volunteering activities.
Activities ranged from catering and horticulture to youth engagement and charity retail, facilitated by partnerships with 10 local charities, community groups and public sector organisations. These opportunities allowed participants to connect with residents, gain work experience, and improve well-being.
83% of participants said that the volunteering activity helped them feel integrated into the community.
“This was an amazing opportunity to learn more about the community and explore different opportunities to engage with it. As a newcomer it’s very difficult to know where to go and how to get started, and this makes me feel so safe and comfortable. I hope to see more volunteering events organised for Hong Kong people and locals in the future.” a Hong Konger participant
91% of participants said that they were very likely to do more volunteering in Sutton.
A huge thank you to the staff and volunteers at Sutton Community Farm, St Raphael’s Hospice, Ecolocal, Hill House Community Centre, the Ukraine Support team at Volunteer Centre Sutton, the Friends of Beddington Park, Carshalton Lavender, The Tower Coffee Shop, St Mary’s Beddington Park, Wallington Rotary, Cheam & Sutton Rotary, Carshalton Park Rotary and Sutton Parks.
"They enthusiastically got stuck in and worked very well alongside our other volunteers who were happy to make them feel welcome and get to know them a bit better out in the fields!" Sonia Cropper, Sutton Community Farm
"It's wonderful to see so many Hong Kongers wanting to get involved. Many thanks to all the wonderful volunteers who helped in the Great Clean Up in Beddington Park on Sunday. They made a huge contribution to keeping the park free of litter." Muriel McIntosh, Friends of Beddington Park
And thank you to all the local residents who made everyone feel so welcome! This project shows how amazing community initiatives can be at bringing people together! By connecting cultures and encouraging teamwork, it’s created lasting opportunities for Hong Kongers to feel at home in Sutton. The result? A more inclusive, welcoming community where everyone feels like they truly belong. Thnak you to Sutton Council for funding this project.
Find out more about volunteering roles and opportunities in this project:
Volunteering in Sutton's parks and green spaces
Sutton Community Farm crop production and vegbox packing
St Raphael's Hospice shop volunteer, volunteer driver, compassionate neighbour, reception volunteer and volunteer gardener
