As the Village Agent for East Cambridgeshire, I help people feel connected, supported and confident in their own villages.

 

People I work with feel less isolated and more able to deal with the things life throws at them. Through attending their local community hub, individuals gain reassurance that someone is listening, practical help to resolve problems, and the confidence to stay connected in their community rather than facing challenges alone.

I spend time in community hubs across East Cambridgeshire, joining conversations, activities and everyday moments over a cup of tea. By building relationships with attendees and volunteers, I can spot where extra help is needed and connect people to the right support. Sometimes that’s a quick fix on the day; sometimes it means following up later to make sure nothing is left unresolved.

This work matters because rural challenges are often hidden. Cambridgeshire can look affluent, but loneliness, access issues and pressure on volunteers are very real. By strengthening hubs and the people behind them, Cambridgeshire ACRE helps communities remain resilient, supportive and sustainable – so support doesn’t disappear when circumstances change.

A moment that mattered to me

“I can’t pick just one! On every visit, I’m reminded why my work matters – whether through a friendly hug, a warm smile or somebody’s pure relief when a problem is sorted. When I first started visiting the hubs in December 2024, I arrived as a stranger, just another person from a charity. Now, I feel genuinely part of these communities.”