Holly Hewitt has become the new manager of the Waverley Day Centre on Waverley Road in Kenilworth.

She is returning to a town she knows well after four years managing FarGo Village in Coventry and four years previously running theKenilworthCentre as well as being one of the founding team for Covid-19 support Kenilworth group that went on to become Compassionate Kenilworth.

Holly says it feels "great to be back in this special and community focussed town" and that the welcome from staff and volunteers has been "really warm".

She is already reconnecting with the community and working on plans to keep the centres future healthy and relevant to the needs of Kenilworth's older residents.

A major focus for Holly is sustaining and bringing Waverley's services to new members.

"We have two very busy days and a couple of day where we still have some spaces for new members," she said.

She encourages potential clients and families to "come and try it out" through a gentle, no‑commitment introduction process, involving Initial conversation, a drop in for coffee and then a trial day.

Members can then choose how often they want to attend, from daily visits to some just coming for lunch.

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Enrichment activities include visits form therapy dog 'Kellie' (image supplied)

Holly highlights the dedication of the team, describing their commitment as "amazing" and essential to the centre's success.

Volunteers help with everything from assisting in the kitchen, befriending to driving the minibus all have huge energy and commitment that make every day fun.

She says: "The former manager Kate Sweet, set in motion some great projects I can continue and Anne Cross who was the manager here for many years is still a regular volunteer and it's been so helpful to have her support."

Waverley offers a wide range of activities, from celebrating special events (like Coventry City FC's championship win) to concerts from local musicians and choir to visits form therapy dog 'Kellie' and daily activities for the mind and body that promote connection and wellbeing.

However, Holly emphasises that each day is shaped by what members want to do, whether that's the planned activity or simply a relaxed chat over coffee or planting for the garden.

The centre provides transport for people living in the CV8 area but welcomes clients from further afield as well.

"The bus supported with sponsorship from Kenilworth Lions, Jones Family Jewellers, Kenilworth Rotary, and other fund raising. is crucial to making Waverley accessible to our members as many find mobility difficult and wouldn't be able to reach us without it," she added.

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Those interested in learning more can contact Holly: [email protected] , 01926 852365.

Waverley sponsors Kenilworth Nub News.

Without community-minded partners like them, we would not be able to provide clickbait-free news to the people of Kenilworth.

Waverley offers a wide range of activities - but each day is shaped by the members (image supplied)