Volunteering in the Community: Jo’s Journey
Jo was looking for something to give her a purpose and some new, pleasant experiences. She googled volunteering in her area and found the Community Support Service. This is a partnership between Voluntary Norfolk, Age UK Norwich, and the British Red Cross, which provides short-term, practical support for people who have either just left hospital or helps people in the community with temporary issues to avoid their conditions worsening.
In her first six months, she completed 34 activities and gave 50 hours of support to clients. She has helped to deliver food parcels, helped with tasks around the house and provided much needed companionship. Jo says that she feels she brings consistency to the clients’ lives.
She was able to help one client who was in a wheelchair after breaking her leg. She had been helping out around the house, and noticed that the client had some seeds growing on the window sill. As a keen gardener herself, Jo offered to take the seeds to her greenhouse to help then grow. This really spurred the client on to grow more.
Jo realised that doing this was also about having a connection. She said, “I find it very rewarding, to help people with their own difficulties and challenges, to make the smallest difference to their lives even for just one day, to receive their gratitude, is heart-warming and fulfilling.”
Well done Jo and thank you for your efforts!
If you’re interested in finding out more about volunteering for the Community Support Service, please visit our service page.
