Matt, 34, volunteers with young people at Bexley Moorings, and at two animal shelters; New Hope Animal Rescue and Dogue De Bordeaux Welfare
Tell us about your volunteering roles
I’ve been volunteering at Bexley Moorings for almost 18 months, mainly at their youth group for vulnerable young people. I work with the young people to build their confidence, develop their social skills and their independence through activities such as cooking, team building and days out. I’ve also mentored one young person as a befriender – this meant that I could build a real bond with them on a one to one level and get to know them a lot better, being somebody that they could talk to and ask questions. I’m still in touch with the family now so it was a great experience.
I also volunteer for two animal rescue organisations; New Hope Animal Rescue and DDB Welfare. I mainly do home checks, dog assessments, transport runs and share awareness on social media for animals needing homes. They span the UK so as a volunteer you become the eyes and ears of the charity to help them match the right dog to the new home.
How often do you volunteer?
I volunteer at Bexley Moorings once a week at their youth group on Thursday evenings and haven’t missed a week yet. I also help out on day trips when I can. For the animal welfare organisations I volunteer once or twice each month.
How do you fit volunteering around the rest of your life?
I haven’t got children yet, but do have a full time job. The youth group is in the evenings and I try to help out at weekends when I can. I do work from home sometimes which is a little bit more flexible but I like generally being busy and you just make it work. You can make it fit in with your routine, and know what you can and can’t commit to.
What do you find most rewarding about being a volunteer?
I’m a social person and enjoy meeting people from all walks of life. I get a lot of satisfaction knowing that I am trying to help someone else and do a good thing. Sometimes just being able to listen to someone or give guidance to someone is helping make a difference. I found befriending very rewarding because I could see the impact that I was having on the young man and you can see them develop and grow in confidence. I’m still in touch with him now and it was the most rewarding experience to see how far they have come.
Do you have any advice for someone who’s thinking of volunteering?
Everyone should do it! There are so many different types of volunteering opportunities – it isn’t always just raising money or committing a large portion of your free time. If you think you haven’t got anything to give you probably just don’t realise it. Finding something that interests you also helps as it gives you motivation and more satisfaction - it doesn’t have to be as time consuming as you may think. Don’t feel overwhelmed – most charities offer guidance and support and you won’t just be thrown in at the deep end. Even if you haven’t got much experience don’t discount it or feel that it’s too daunting. Everyone has something to offer!