Sam has written about her experience volunteering with GYC…

Why did you decide to volunteer for GYC?                                                                 

I like working with children and young people.  I believe that everyone should have the same opportunities in life, and I like to put something into the community. 

It would be great if you could share how you felt going along to the group for the first time and returning as a group volunteer after a break.                                 

I was a little nervous but also excited to get started but was made to feel really welcome by GYC team and the young people. 

What kind of things do you get involved with?                                                                 

I get involved with crafts, sports, supervising, talking to the young carers.  I enjoy working with the young people one to one and of course we have to do housekeeping.

How does volunteering make you feel?     

Volunteering with GYC has taught me a lot about myself – it makes you see life from a different viewpoint, especially when the young carers talk about their life and what they are going through.   I enjoy giving my time with GYC.

What would you say to anyone else thinking about volunteering with GYC?       

It’s great that as a volunteer I feel valued.  You do a great job GYC.

We asked Khadija, lead worker at our Gloucester Young Carers Group, what it means to have volunteer support:

‘Sam has honestly been such an invaluable gem at group, with her sleeves rolled up she is not afraid to get stuck in with the children, who I know really adore and appreciate the energy she brings. With the privilege of an extra hand in group, children get more 1-1 and it also allows us to provide more activities. With three adults we can have one adult baking with a small group of children, one at a crafty table and the third able to take the children outside in to the garden.’ – Khadija Hansdot, Junior Keyworker

To find out more about becoming a group volunteer please click here for the role description.

If you would like to volunteer for GYC please get in contact with Sue Auld, our volunteer coordinator today by emailing sue@glosyoungcarers.org.uk or calling the office on 01452 733060.

We would love to hear from you.