A non-profit organisation in Malvern has received funding to purchase new kitchen equipment to provide lunches in town.

The town's volunteer group, Zest4Life Conversation & Laughter, has been given a grant to buy a new catering trolley and workbench as well as food supplies.

The group, which has been active in the community since 2014, hosts more than 30 people each week at the Octagon Community Centre.

 

 

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However, they've had to navigate the challenges that stem from ageing kitchen equipment.

Seeking assistance with the inconvenience, the group’s founder, Martin Lawrence, reached out to Platform’s Community Chest.

The chest is a funding pot for Platform customers and community charities, clubs and other not-for-profit organisations whose work or project directly benefits Platform customers.

The applications, which are evaluated against set eligibility criteria, are appraised by the Customer Experience Panel.

Marion Duffy, chief operations officer at Platform, said: "Zest4Life is such a worthwhile cause, and we are so glad we have been able to support it with much-needed funds to continue its invaluable work within the local community."

Mr Lawrence said: "Zest4Life has become a lifesaver for many over the years, especially those that have lost someone and, with it, conversation and laughter.

"Our lunch clubs are really popular but our ageing equipment has made delivering them increasingly difficult."

Some of the money will also go towards purchasing additional food to be able to continue to offer free refreshments to both Platform customers and other isolated individuals who all benefit from the social interaction. We will also be able to continue to deliver free food to doorsteps in Malvern to help combat the very real needs of food poverty.”

Zest4Life has twice received Highly Commended certificates from Malvern Hills District Council for 'Improving Lives'.

The group continues to work in conjunction with NHS clinicians who attend its events, providing consultations, advice and health checks.

Mr Lawrence concluded: "It is only by continuing to work closely with partners like Platform Housing Group that we can keep our 100 per cent volunteer-run, open-to-all facility going despite running at a financial loss on a weekly basis."