The 3rd – 9th June saw many organisations and people celebrating volunteer’s week. A week where charities give thanks to the bed rock of their workforce. Many events were held around the country and here in West Sussex we chose to join Voluntary Action Arun and Chichester’s big Picnic held at The Aldingbourne Centre, near Arundel.
Some of Alzheimer’s Society fabulous volunteers joined us for a sunny lunch on the lawns. We tucked into delicious picnic treats whilst listening to The Sleepy Lagoon Orchestra 1930’s/40’s dance band. It was a lovely opportunity to meet volunteers from other organisations and to chat with the High Sheriff of West Sussex, Philippa Gogarty. Before leaving we could not resist a short walk to see the menagerie of animals including donkeys, alpacas, and pigs.
Have you ever thought about volunteering?
People volunteer for many reasons, here are some extracts of conversations we had during lunch with our volunteers.
“It’s the most worthwhile role you can take after retirement. Helping families as the go on their journey.” “We are very fortunate that we are not made to feel like the tea and coffee making people.”
“I find it very humbling. Listening to some of the challenges, frustrations, and difficulties that others have, and being able to help in some small way; even if it’s just giving them the opportunity to talk and off load, puts my worries into perspective.”
“I volunteer as I watched my intelligent, ‘right on it’ friend go through her journey with dementia. I was so shocked when I found out. Her husband hadn’t wanted anyone to know, not family or friends.” “I think people might be frightened they will catch it.”
“Dementia is like Cancer used to be in the 1970’s. Volunteering for Alzheimer’s Society is not just about looking after people with dementia. There are other roles too.”
“I didn’t know anyone with dementia, I knew nothing about it, but my colleague encouraged me to apply. I am so glad I did; the training was very good, and I have learnt so much from talking to families affected by dementia.”
Alzheimer’s Society West Sussex are looking for more volunteers to join their Community Development team.
Volunteering can help you to: –
Learn something new
Give back to the community
Gain experience for a new or change of role
Make new friends
Gain confidence
Ease you into retirement
Try out a new industry or career
If you would like to know more about volunteering with us, please contact Dawn or Jess at westsussexdementiacommunitynews@alzheimers.org.uk
We look forward to hearing from you.
And in the words of our volunteers “Just do it”!
