Connection and community action

When Gillian, 69, retired from her role at Horndean Parish Council in April 2023, slowing down was never the plan. Wanting to stay physically and mentally active, as well as giving back locally, a quick search led her to an available trustee role at Horizon Leisure. Gillian met with the Chair of Trustees and other senior leaders and was invited to join.

Gillian explains: “I don’t believe retirement is the end point for me, I’ve just got started! My retirement has given me much fulfilment and pleasure so far. You have a good retirement when you have focus, a plan and want to give back.”

“I’m a great believer in the long-term health benefits of all types of exercise. My own mother died when she was quite young from a stroke, and that has made me more aware of looking after myself. Horizon Leisure truly makes a difference to our community and if I can support that it gives me purpose.”

More than a gym

For Gillian and her family, using their local Waterlooville Leisure Centre is an integral part of daily life; from her adult daughter attending group exercise classes to her grandsons swimming competitively for the Havant & Waterlooville Club. The leisure centre is a vibrant community space, and beyond the physical health benefits of her favourite Strength and Blast classes, Gillian praises the essential social connection the centre provides to the local area.

“It’s not just about the physical, it’s a social hub too,” she says. “My husband and I have both made great friends at the leisure centre. For everyone, especially people who live by themselves, the opportunity to meet new people and chat with the friendly staff is essential.”

Uncovering the charity

Like many members, Gillian was initially unaware that Horizon Leisure operates as a charitable trust.

She explains: “The role of trustee really appealed to me, as even though I worked and live locally, I hadn’t realised Horizon Leisure was a charity. People don’t realise that by becoming a member or accessing our services via pay as you go, their contribution is helping Horizon Leisure fund important community initiatives, such as the Wellbeing Hub at the Meridian Centre and funding essential equipment for members to use within the gym. Our customers’ membership is both helping their own personal wellbeing and helping others. This is critical to how I help shape Horizon Leisure’s long-term strategy alongside the other trustees and the senior leadership team.”

A hands-on trustee

Gillian doesn’t just sit in board meetings; she acts as an active advocate and informal feedback loop for the board of trustees. Whether participating in promotional shoots, supporting staff events like MacMillan fundraisers or simply chatting with staff and customers, she brings a grounded, community-first perspective to her governance role.

“ I don’t make it well-known that I’m a trustee when I’m there, but I do feedback. I don’t have a finance or corporate background, so I’m more about just being around, supporting the staff, and being aware of what the community needs.”