PETER Hull MBE Ply is speaking at Sholing Friends group at Hart Court in February to raise awareness of the new club and encourage residents from the area to attend (2026).
He will be sharing his inspiring experiences at the friendship club, run in partnership with the charity Communicare, which is dedicated to boosting social connectedness in Southampton, on February 9.
Peter, who has a trio of gold medals and is also a Disability Sport Advocate, says: “As a Paralympian with three gold medals and world records from Barcelona 1992, and an MBE for services to disability sport, I’ve learned firsthand that it’s not our bodies that limit us, but often society and the environment we live in.
“I hope to inspire conversations around how adapting our surroundings and attitudes can empower everyone – regardless of ability – to lead full, active lives.”
Sholing Friends is a new friendship club bringing together Communicare service users, Hart Court residents and anyone from the area who wishes to go along. It takes place on Mondays from 10.30am-12noon at Hart Court on Cranbury Road in Sholing.
Yazmin Holtby, Local Housing Manager at Hart Court, who helps organise the club explains: “Sholing Friends is all about bringing people together. It’s open to all residents in the local area, so whether you come for a cuppa, a chat, or to join in with the activities, everyone is welcome!
“We’re indebted to Communicare with its ongoing support for our club and are delighted to welcome Peter on Monday, February 9 from 10.30am-12noon and hope lots of people pop in to hear him speak. It promises to be very interesting.”
Communicare, which is a friendly, neighbourhood charity, provides services that enrich the lives of isolated people in and around Southampton.
Its services, which include partnering and assisting with clubs like Sholing Friends, are staffed by its devoted volunteers, known as Communiteers, who give their time freely.
The charity is currently supporting around 750 individuals/families through tasks including, befriending, transport for appointments and social outings, as well as assistance with shopping.
The services Communicare provides are free to users, although beneficiaries are invited to make a donation if they are able to, and Communiteers are offered expenses. The charity always needs more donations and volunteers to help with its work.
Communicare Manager, Annie Clewlow says: “We’re delighted to be partnering with Sholing Friends and to be involved in this brilliant new group. It’s a wonderful club that we know will give lots of joy and some super socialisation opportunities to all those involved.
“If you’re in Sholing on Monday, February 9, please come along. There’s a suggested donation of £2. Join us all for a cuppa, a chat and to hear Peter speak. If you’re unable to attend this event, please go along any Monday when you can. We are particularly indebted to Southampton Solent Rotary Club, who have supported us with resources to launch Friendship Groups across the city.”
Sholing Friends takes place at Hart Court on Cranbury Road in Sholing on Mondays each week from 10.30am until 12noon.
To find out more, please visit www.communicareinsouthampton.org.uk/events/.
