Volunteering is an important part of our charity. It offers enthusiastic individuals the opportunity to use their skills to engage with staff and people we support.
Our relationships with communities are important and we are always looking for innovative ways to create connections. Today we spoke to Ros, a volunteer at Warnford House in Gosport.
Warnford House, Gosport
I have only been doing it for a few weeks, and I love it!
My interest in supporting people with mental health needs stems from my background and experiences working in education. I wanted to use my spare time to do something helpful. I wanted to be able to make a difference – however small, to other people in my community.
I currently volunteer three days a week. Once my disclosure checks were approved I completed some mandatory induction training and was all set to work. I got to know the residents and staff at Warnford House relatively quickly, and have begun to learn who needs what and when.
Companionship and support
For most of the residents it’s about companionship and support, and as agreed with my manager, that would be my objective. Each day a resident might ask me to go for a walk, or to help with a shopping trip, or to help them in the kitchen. I am happy to help however I can. If a resident simply wants to sit and talk about something then I am happy to sit with them and listen and chat. I have been trained to play darts (thank you Tony!), and I’ve joined in with a quiz.
I’ve helped a resident explore options for voluntary work for themselves. I’ve also learned a little more about how medication and mental health work in partnership. I’ve attended staff and residents meetings and have learned so much about how we can help those who need support with mental health – and daily living – needs.
At the end of the day I want to feel that I have helped, even if it is in one small way, even one person. If I can make a bit of a difference, then I have met my own personal objective! I would certainly recommend volunteering, if they can spare a little time.
If you are interested in becoming a volunteer, let us know by filling in the below form: