Steve is a volunteer at Westbank’s gym, GymClusive. Having personally benefited from the cardiac rehabilitation classes offered at Westbank in the past, Steve was inspired to give back. Drawing on his own lived experience, he chose to support others on their journey to better health by volunteering his time and energy in the gym.

Before the pandemic, Steve was a regular volunteer. After a pause following the pandemic, he returned to take on a vital role supporting the exercise referral classes. He now volunteers in four classes each week, offering encouragement and practical support to individuals recovering from strokes, cancer, COPD, and other health conditions, who take part in a 10-week, gym based progressive exercise programme.

Steve’s dedication and empathy make a real difference. His presence helps participants build strength, confidence, and overall wellbeing through exercise -proving just how powerful peer support can be.

Steve has played a vital role in helping to rehabilitate two individuals who arrived last year in wheelchairs and can now walk independently with a stick. His impact is truly life-changing!

Steve embodies everything Westbank Community Health and Care stands for – he’s caring, empathetic, and supportive to everyone he meets. He’s not just a volunteer; he’s a key part of the GymClusive team. His lived experience gives him a deep understanding of what people need, and his presence lifts everyone – staff and service beneficiaries alike.

Whether it’s making a cup of tea, doing a bit of cleaning, or simply stepping up whenever help is needed, Steve is always there.

Steve says of his volunteering role, “I volunteer to keep myself active and give something back.  Also, volunteering in the gym, I meet lots of different people with various needs.  I see the improvement after 10 weeks, it’s so rewarding, and I look forward to my days volunteering”.