INSPIRATIONALÂ SWINDON GIRLGUIDINGÂ LEADERÂ SHINES ON THEÂ RED CARPET
9 June 2026: An inspirational Swindon Rainbows leader was treated like a true VIP at an exclusive celebration.  Melanie Ball joined hundreds of fellow outstanding volunteers at the Girlguiding Celebrates event in London’s West End.
The fabulous annual party – now in its fourth year – thanked and celebrated volunteers who were nominated by other Girlguiding members, parents and carers for making incredible contributions.
The unforgettable afternoon saw attendees walk the red carpet, before enjoying delicious treats, refreshments and spectacular entertainment. Melanie has led 1st Abbey Meads Rainbows for more than a decade.
She was nominated to attend Girlguiding Celebrates by parent Flora Thompson whose daughter Heather, now 7, was in her Rainbows unit for two years before she recently moved to on to Brownies. She started as a shy five-year-old; but Flora says she saw her daughter, who has special educational needs, flourish during her time at Rainbows.
“Melanie truly deserved recognition for the incredible dedication, time, and care she gives to each girl in her unit,” said Flora.  “We are so grateful for the wonderful Rainbows experience she gave Heather. Melanie showed great understanding and support for her needs.  “Heather was often shy and uncomfortable around new people or new activities. Melanie made sure she was always paired with someone she knew and explained what was happening in advance. As a result, Heather has blossomed into a confident child.  “Melanie’s inclusive approach ensures every girl feels valued and involved. She consistently goes above and beyond in creating engaging sessions, organising exciting day trips, and providing a wide range of fun activities.”
Melanie says she felt proud to hear about the difference she has made to Heather’s young life. “It was lovely to be nominated but it came as a total surprise,” said Melanie. “When Heather joined Rainbows, I put a number of changes in place to help her settle in but they were in no way an inconvenience; it’s what I would do anyway. But to understand the impact it’s had, you can’t really put words to it. “It was very humbling to attend Girlguiding Celebrates because everyone was there for the same special reason.”
A Brownie and a Guide herself in childhood, Melanie says she started volunteering for Girlguiding after having children herself.  It wasn’t long before Melanie heard about a local Rainbows unit that was going to close due to a lack of leaders.
Melanie took on the role 11 years ago and has been leading 1st Abbey Meads Rainbows ever since. “I really enjoy being with the girls and seeing the joy on their faces,” said Melanie, who is also a division commissioner.“Through Girlguiding we can give them so many new experiences both big and small. Even little things – that might not seem like a big deal to others – like their first sleepover, can be incredible.  Some of the girls are so scared and nervous, but are so proud of themselves when they manage to do it.”
The Girlguiding Celebrates event was held on Saturday, June 6 at Odeon Luxe Leicester Square.  Girlguiding is powered by over 80,000 inspiring volunteers who give their time and talents to create the best experience for girls.
Girls thrive in Girlguiding. They’re on average 28% more confident than other girls in the UK, and 15% happier.1 Girlguiding volunteers make a huge difference to the lives of thousands of girls, however much time they can spare. They also get to have lots of incredible experiences, develop new skills, and meet other like-minded people along the way.
For more information about the flexible volunteering opportunities available at Girlguiding, visit girlguiding.org.uk 
