"I just want people to feel better"

Available for over a year

Eighty-two-year-old Irene Ferguson from Bournemouth is one of the finalists in the Great Neighbour category in BBC Radio Solent's Make a Difference Awards for 2026. Irene builds community, reduces loneliness and creates belonging in the independent living complex where she lives. She also runs the gardening club, table-top sales and brings people together in fun events as well as checking on her neighbours. She has been speaking to BBC Radio Solent's Rick Jackson.