Our Team
Sean Massey
Chief Operating Officer
“For me, community work has never just been about running activities or delivering projects, it’s about creating spaces where people feel they belong. Lower Kersal Young People and Community Group was built on the simple idea that when people come together, support each other, and share their time and skills, communities become stronger.
Over the years I’ve seen first-hand how something as simple as a weekly coffee morning, a shared meal, or a creative activity can change someone’s week, sometimes even their life. Many of the people who walk through our doors arrive feeling isolated or unsure, but what they find is a welcoming environment where they can connect, contribute, and feel valued.
What makes our work special is that it isn’t just something we deliver for the community, it’s something we build with the community. Volunteers, local residents, and participants all shape what we do, bringing their ideas, energy, and experiences into the organisation. That sense of shared ownership is what has allowed us to grow and support around 100 people every week.
I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve achieved so far, but more than anything I’m proud of the people who make this organisation what it is, the volunteers who give their time, the residents who keep coming back and supporting one another, and the team who work every day to keep things moving forward. Together we’re not just running programmes; we’re building a stronger, more connected community here in Lower Kersal.”
Food has always been one of the most powerful ways to bring people together. At Lower Kersal Young People and Community Group, our food and wellbeing work is about far more than just providing meals, it’s about creating a welcoming space where people can sit down together, talk, and feel part of something.
Many of the people who attend our sessions come for the food initially, but what they really gain is connection. A shared meal can open conversations, build friendships, and help people feel less alone. For some residents, our activities provide an important routine during the week and a place where they know they will be welcomed.
Through our community food sessions we try to promote healthy eating, practical cooking skills, and a positive approach to wellbeing. Whether it’s helping prepare meals, sharing recipes, or simply sitting together with a cup of tea, every interaction helps build a stronger sense of community.
What I enjoy most about my role is seeing people grow in confidence. Volunteers learn new skills, residents start supporting one another, and the atmosphere becomes something that everyone contributes to. It’s incredibly rewarding to be part of a project where small acts, like sharing food, offering a listening ear, or helping someone try something new, can make such a meaningful difference to people’s lives