Community groups benefit from Mersey Gateway Time Bank Initiative

The Mersey Gateway Time Bank, run by Merseylink and Merseyflow, has provided 30 days of support each year since 2014 for charities and community groups across Runcorn and Widnes.

With backing from the Mersey Gateway Crossings Board and Tarmac, the initiative shares the time, expertise, and resources of staff to deliver long-term benefits.

Tina Robinson, fundraising manager at Halton Haven Hospice, said: "We are incredibly grateful to all the project volunteers who have so generously given their time to support Halton Haven Hospice.

"Their hard work caring for our garden areas has made a real difference to these much-loved spaces.

"We would like to extend our sincere thanks to the teams from Merseyflow, Mersey Gateway Crossings Board, and Tarmac for everything they have done for us through the Time Bank initiative."

In one of this year’s projects, volunteers spruced up Carter House Bridge, coordinated by the Spike Island and Widnes Canal Restoration Group and the Sankey Canal Restoration Society.

The work involved litter picking, weeding, and general cleaning, leaving the area looking fresher and supporting wildlife.

At Halton Haven Hospice, teams helped tidy the main garden in preparation for the Tea at Three fundraiser on August 22.

Their efforts ensured the outdoor space was ready for guests to enjoy during the event.

Other beneficiaries of the Time Bank in 2026 include two schools, a bowling group, a residents’ association, Linnets Football Club, a community choir, and Spike Island and Widnes Canal Restoration Group.

Karen Atherton, Merseylink network steward and Time Bank lead, said: "Time Bank is focused on creating lasting benefits for people and communities across Halton, and we are delighted to be supporting such worthy causes."

Liam Geoghegan, general manager for Merseylink, added: "Time Bank is all about supporting the people and places that make Halton special.

"It has been fantastic to help local groups this year, and we look forward to supporting even more in 2027."

Jade Koo, HR manager at Merseyflow, said the scheme has also strengthened working relationships.

Ms Koo said: "Collaborating with Merseylink on the Time Bank initiative has been an incredibly rewarding experience for our employees.

"Taking part in these community challenges has strengthened our partnership projects, while supporting Halton Haven Hospice has given us a meaningful opportunity to help people in need within the local community."