In celebration of Volunteers' Week, we are shining a spotlight on the incredible volunteers helping communities and charities across Bath & North East Somerset. In order to champion the contribution of our volunteers, and give recognition for all they do, 3SG has spoken to several local volunteers to hear their stories. Each day over Volunteers' Week (June 3rd - 7th), we will be sharing a unique volunteer story.
On behalf of all charities, community groups and Third Sector organisations of Bath & North East Somerset - Thank You to all those who give up their time to volunteer. We hope by sharing these spotlights, we can highlight your efforts and inspire others to get involved.
Sarah
To mark Day 2 of Volunteers' Week, we're thrilled to share some volunteering insights from Sarah. Sarah started volunteering as a teenager for her Duke of Edinburgh award, helping to sort through clothing donations each Saturday at Oxfam. She has also volunteered as a steward for Oxfam at Glastonbury Festival, and has helped out at a hostel in Greece. Since graduating from a design course in London, she has been working part time for a local charity in Bath, managing their social media, and enjoys creative projects in her spare time.
What motivates you to volunteer?
It’s a fun way to do something unusual or interesting that you wouldn’t normally have the possibility to do! You meet many new people and get the added benefit of feeling good that you’re helping a cause.
What have you learnt from your experiences?
A lot because each time I’ve volunteered has been doing something that was outside of my comfort zone. Everyone is friendly and most volunteering opportunities will say yes.
Have there been any stand alone moments or stories from your volunteering that you'd like to share?
They were all really good experiences so it’s hard to pick one. I really enjoyed seeing behind the scenes of the charity shop when I was a teenager.
What advice would you give to someone looking to start volunteering?
Go for it! If you don’t like it you can always leave and find a different volunteering role, there is nothing holding you to do it.
What is your favourite thing about volunteering?
Meeting new people, and trying new things!
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Interested in becoming a volunteer?
The B&NES Community Volunteer Service (https://bathneshealthandcare.nhs.uk/wellness-community-volunteer-services/become-a-volunteer/ ) (run by HCRG) holds weekly drop in sessions at local libraries, as well as virtual 1-2-1’s.
Upcoming drop in sessions:
Bath Library Thursdays at 10-12pm: 6th June and 4th July
Midsomer Norton Library Wednesdays at 10-12pm: 26th June and 31st July
Keynsham Library Mondays 10-12pm: 24th June and 29th July
To book a virtual appointment to discuss your volunteering interests with an advisor, please call the team on 0300 247 0050 or email bathnes.volunteerservices@hcrgcaregroup.com
You can also subscribe to 3SG's monthly Community Newsletter, and 3SG's Volunteer Whatsapp group, to be kept up to date with new, local volunteer opportunities, on a monthly basis.
Check out our Volunteer page for more information, and where else to find opportunities.
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