SWLLC Cost of Living Volunteer Team Honoured at the 2025 Merton Civic Pride Awards 

We are thrilled to announce that our dedicated Cost of Living volunteer team has been honoured with a 2025 Merton Partnership Civic Pride Volunteer Award. 

This award recognises the extraordinary efforts of volunteers across the borough; and we’re proud that our team’s compassion, professionalism, and commitment to Merton residents have been recognised at this level. 

Over the past year, our volunteers have supported more than 200 vulnerable individuals across Merton, offering vital practical assistance and a consistent, compassionate presence during times of acute financial hardship. Whether they’re advocating for emergency support, guiding someone through an application, or simply listening without judgment, their work goes far beyond immediate help. It creates lasting impact; restoring trust, reducing isolation, and building long-term resilience in the community. 

What sets this team apart is not only the depth of their training and expertise, but also their ability to meet people at crisis points with empathy, urgency, and dignity. They ensure no one feels alone or overlooked. 

We’d like to extend our heartfelt thanks to the members of our current Cost of Living volunteer team: Lorenzo Montani, Arthie Sivan, Emelie Robinson, Tom Spargo, Ceyhan Ballioglu, Hedieh Baghi, Kobi Mohan, Caroline Finill, and Judith Ward. While this list highlights those who have generously given their time in recent months, we also recognise and deeply appreciate the hundreds of volunteers who have contributed to the project since it began in 2021. Each of them has played a vital role in shaping the impact of this work. 

The award was presented at a special ceremony hosted by the Worshipful Mayor of Merton on Thursday 5 June in Mitcham. It was a heart-warming evening of celebration and connection with other inspiring volunteers from across the borough. 

We are grateful and proud of our team for their ongoing commitment they have shown to standing alongside South West London residents when it matters most. 

If you would like to volunteer with us, please contact volunteers@swllc.org, and bring your skillset to be part of meaningful work!