Back in 2021 St George’s was awarded funding from the National Lottery Community Fund, for a three-year project, Lupset Inspiring Volunteer Engagement (LIVE). This September marked the end of the project, so we gathered together with our volunteers to celebrate the achievements before we move forward to the next phase of our volunteering programme.
Volunteers from across the organisation joined us on the day, from drivers to childcare support, befrienders to catering assistants. Each were each gifted with a goodie bag in thanks for their continued support. We came together to remember the times we’ve shared, and enjoyed looking at photos from some of the many events, groups and activities we’ve taken part in over the years.
Suzy from Healthwatch Wakefield also came along to share the findings of her recent evaluation of the project.
St. George’s is always there as and when I need them. Everyone I come across is friendly and welcoming. I have the flexibility I need, and any new opportunities are opened up to me should I wish to take them. It helps me to feel like I am giving back to my community and helping people who really need it. I’ve made friends and my colleagues know they can call on me too when they need my help.
We enjoyed sharing stories over a meal together with delicious catering from our on-site café.
Mike Holt, the Chair of Trustees, spoke about his experience as a volunteer working with St George’s since the late nineties:
"Volunteering allows you to learn about yourself, as well as new skills. It’s fulfilling to give back to others and we gain as much as we give. I always come away [from volunteering] feeling positive."
Our CEO Berni O’Brien also said a few words acknowledging the wide-ranging impact volunteers have:
“We couldn’t do half of what we do without volunteers. [They] build different kind of relationships with our community, like through befriending. [Their] work enriches St George’s and genuinely changes lives. I was really touched by the things [they] shared about [their] experiences.”
We’re incredibly thankful to staff past and present for their support in developing our offer, especially Sheena Ibbotson, Jade Wright and Keri Moore.
Our volunteer coordinator Keri has overseen the project for the past year, helping to put in place new systems of support and provide further training for volunteers. She has also worked with staff and volunteers to develop new opportunities that fit their needs and skills.
If you’d like to join us as a volunteer, or are interested in learning more, head to our volunteering page, or contact Keri using the details below.
