This week (1st June-7th June 2026) is Volunteers Week, a UK-wide campaign to recognise the amazing contributions of volunteers.

To celebrate, all this week we’ll be sharing stories of volunteers in our communities. First up is Dorothy!

One thousand, six hundred and sixty-four – that’s the staggering number of hours that Dorothy Schofield has given as a volunteer.
For the past eight years, Dorothy has volunteered every Monday and Wednesday at the Shenley Lunch Club based at Shenley Court Hall.

As well as making the club’s visitors feel welcome with friendly conversation, the 78-year-old helps set up tables, prepare tea and coffee and wash up – all the essential tasks needed for the club to run smoothly.

Dorothy (pictured right) was inspired to volunteer by a friend after she retired from her job providing care to people in their own homes.

She said: “I was getting a bit bored after finishing work and a friend suggested I gave volunteering a go. I really like the interaction with people. It’s a lovely club; the people who work there and the people that attend are all so lovely.”

So, what does Dorothy say to those thinking of giving volunteering a go?

“Come and try it! It’s a couple of hours of your time and it’s work but not hard work.” said Dorothy. “It’s a lovely club, very easy going. You can feel a bit lost after working all your life and then retiring but I now look forward to volunteering every week.”

Want to find out about volunteering opportunities in your area, or how you can get involved in Bournville Village Trust’s work? Go to our get involved page today!

The Shenley Lunch Club runs every Monday and Wednesday, 11am-1pm. It includes a home cooked, two course meal for £7.50 pp. Transport may be available too on request. To book, call 0121 475 7521