A second advice centre run for and by disabled people has opened as part of a pioneering Surrey County Council initiative. The hub in Redhill High Street is staffed entirely by volunteers except for a manager. It follows the opening of a similar centre in Epsom – the first of its kind in the country.

Hub co-ordinator Sarah Lynch, who is disabled, said: “All of our volunteers inspire me every day. They have made the vision of the hubs a reality. It is still early days and I’m looking forward to seeing the Redhill Hub grow and for the volunteers to be kept very busy.”

Volunteer Catherine Maumo said: “It makes me feel really good when I am able to help someone. It is important people realise what services there are out there and how they can get help. I have also learnt a great deal myself.”

Fellow volunteer Jen Fookes said: “The potential the hub has is very exciting. Not only are we empowering customers but our volunteers too. I am learning new skills and meeting new people every day.”

Surrey County Council’s Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care and Health Michael Gosling said: “Surrey is leading the way in becoming the first council in the country to take this innovative approach to providing support and advice.

“Whether help is needed with direct payments, the blue badge scheme or mobility equipment, the hub’s volunteers are on hand to draw on their own experiences to give valuable guidance, information and support.”

The hubs promote disabled people’s independence by helping them make more informed choices about the care and support available to them.

There are 14 volunteers working on a shift system at the Redhill centre, which was officially opened on 7 July.

The county council, the Surrey Coalition of Disabled People and the network of user and carer-led organisations in Surrey were successful in a bid to the Department of Health to set up hubs. Surrey was one of four local authorities chosen as a demonstrator site for developing user-led organisations.

Redhill Hub is at 41 High Street and is open Monday to Friday between 10am and 3pm. Call 01737 761614 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

Epsom Hub is at 131 High Street and is open Monday to Friday between 10am and 3pm. Call 01372 744479 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .