Visit: Burnbank Hub

Central Scotland MSP Monica Lennon has praised volunteers at the Burnbank Community Hub after visiting the group and witnessing for herself their hard work and dedication. 

The Hub is run as part of the ‘Our Place, Our Plan Hillhouse, Udston and Burnbank’ initiative led by the South Lanarkshire Partnership and Community Links, in partnership with South Lanarkshire Council 

Operating out of Gilmour and Whitehill Parish Church, every Friday between 10am and 2pm, the Hub offers a range of services including non-referral food provisions, clothing and equipment referrals and general signposting. 

There is also information and support available from the SELECT Employability Project, Money Matters and Remploy.  

In addition, the group’s Community Café is a popular feature offering free hot rolls, soup and tea and coffee. 

Monica, a Scottish Labour and Co-operative representative, has now lodged a motion with the Scottish Parliament in recognition of the work of the Hub. 

She said: “The unsung heroes in our community deserve recognition. That’s why I lodged a motion in the Scottish Parliament to celebrate the volunteers at Burnbank Community Hub. 

“Their commitment and hard work never fail to impress me. It was a pleasure to be back at Gilmour and Whitehill Church in the heart of Burnbank, enjoying conversations with residents and volunteers over a cuppa at the community café. 

“The volunteers really have the community at heart and work tirelessly to help residents in the local area, from offering a free lunch and essentials to take home, to ensuring people can access information and support regarding finances and employment.  

“My genuine thanks go to everyone who is so giving of their time to help others, especially during this cost-of-living crisis when that help is needed more than ever. 

“People like, Anne Paul, who is a church elder at Gilmour and Whitehill Parish Church, offer a warm welcome to anyone who pops by. This is community-led partnership in action and I want to thank everyone involved.” 

A spokesperson for Community Links said: “Development Workers work closely with volunteers to tackle local issues and deliver priorities based on the Neighbourhood Plan. “Projects like the Burnbank Community HUB are a vital lifeline for local residents and the dedication of our volunteers is essential in delivering the project. The HUB provides a safe and warm space for people to socialise while allowing individuals to access mainstreams services in a relaxed environment.

“We will continue to develop the HUB to include additional wrap around services, making it the ultimate one stop shop for residents who are facing the current rising cost of living crisis.”