Volunteer Blog

Tues 27 April 2021

Terrific Telephone Befrienders

At the beginning of lockdown in March 2020, Alison found herself unexpectedly living on her own. The Nursery where she worked had closed and her Mum was self-isolating elsewhere. She felt a little lonely and wanted to find something to do to keep busy, as well as helping others in a similar situation. 

Weds 14 April 2021

Every Little Helps

As the true impact of coronavirus became increasingly real for the strained NHS, and families and individuals losing loved ones, many of you embarked on a quest to find something useful to do. Ann became a volunteer in May 2020, combining it with her work as an HNS medical secretary...

Thurs 1 April 2021

The Gift of Time

The lockdown has left many with a sudden quiet in their usually busy lives. There are hours of free time but not a lot of exciting things to fill it with! Many people have chosen to heed the collective call-to-arms and use their free time to volunteer, providing them with a sense of purpose and community.

Weds 24 March 2021

A Selfless Act

During the last year life has changed a lot for all of us, many of us facing incredibly difficult challenges and hardship. However, when we reflect on our communities, neighbours, friends and families, stories of selfless people and acts shine out like stars.

Tue 16 March 2021

First Out of the Gate

With an end to the restrictions getting tantalisingly close, feelings of hope and positivity are in the air. You may be making plans: to hug your loved ones, to welcome new babies or pets, to celebrate milestones reached during the lockdown, perhaps even to grieve those lost. Although the future does looks brighter, many people within our communities will continue to need our support...

Mon 1 March 2021

A Room with a View

Despite us all having unique stories to tell about our pandemic experience, we can all empathise with the feeling of being isolated and alone. We are only beginning to discover the true impact lockdown restrictions have on mental health, and the depth of loneliness they have caused in our communities.  

Tue 16 Feb 2021

All Hands to the Pump

Up and down the country people continue to take an ‘all hands to the pump’ approach to caring for vulnerable individuals in their communities. Volunteer organisations like Communities 1st, together with a wide range of local volunteer groups, have been beavering away silently and regularly for months, providing much-needed care and support for those who are isolated or at-risk.

Wed 10 Feb 2021

Why Volunteer During Lockdown? 

What makes people volunteer? Volunteers might say they want to connect to the community, feel involved and make a difference. During the pandemic, these people really have been making a huge difference in our communities, beavering away silently and regularly for months to provide care and much-needed support to the vulnerable.

Fri 5 Feb 2021

Peggy and Amy's Story

The COVID-19 outbreak has caused undeniable sadness and hardship for many, but amidst the pain you may have heard tales of kindness and selflessness that have lifted your spirits. The Compassionate Community Connector programme (run by Communities 1st)  relies on volunteers to support vulnerable and isolated people in the local area.