Deborah Breen, CDT Community Champions Lead
Deborah Breen – video transcript.pdf
Sharon Coates, CDT Community Champion
Sharon manages the day-to-day operations at Citizen’s House, Consett – from hiring out spaces to supporting volunteers. The building is a vibrant hub hosting coffee mornings, exercise classes, baby groups, and more, all aimed at improving community wellbeing.
Every day, people drop in seeking help. Sharon ensures no one leaves without support, often signposting them to services. She’s created a “crisis board” in the hallway, displaying useful information from the Community Champions programme.
“Being part of the Community Champions programme means I’ve got more information and if someone comes in with a problem, I can show them the board. My idea of being a community champion is we never turn anyone away”
Through the programme, Sharon has gained access to valuable resources, which she shares with group leaders and attendees. For example, after attending fire safety training, she passed on tips to a support group with elderly members.
Being a Community Champion has helped Sharon feel more connected and informed, extending the benefits beyond her role and into her personal life.
Becky Land, CDT Community Champion
“I signed up to be a Community Champion because I admired their work and wanted to help. Supporting the work with farmers was important to me, especially knowing that three farmers a week take their own lives. Growing up on a farm, I felt a personal connection and wanted to support the industry.
I took a questionnaire to the Dales, engaging with people informally rather than strictly following the forms. Initially, I had no expectations. The timing was challenging due to lambing season, but with support from Deborah Breen, I managed to navigate through it.
I realised that simply handing out papers wouldn’t work, so I adapted my approach and I was able to relate to farmers and discuss the sheep trade.
This experience boosted my confidence, earned me a qualification from the farmers’ charity, the Royal Agricultural Benevolent Institution (RABI), and connected me with various communities. It highlighted the barriers farmers face in accessing health services and brought rural issues to the forefront.
Overall, it was a humbling experience that increased understanding of the challenges farmers face. The farming community faces unique hardships, and it’s crucial to keep doors open and continue supporting them. I’m proud of my farming roots and grateful for the opportunity to contribute.”
Find out more about becoming a County Durham Together Community Champion