Chris has been volunteering for Carers First since 2010, when he was 71 years old. Today, he continues to offer his advice, expertise and knowledge to help support those caring for someone as much as possible. He shares why volunteering is important to him, and how it can fulfil you in more ways than one.
Chris has always been passionate about volunteering, and in 2010 he found out about volunteer opportunities at Carers First, and decided to apply. Having had various roles in the past involving people, he had “enormous experience talking to people”, and fantastic communication skills, making him the perfect volunteer to speak with carers. In fact, it was Chris’ suggestion that we develop a telephone befriending service for volunteers to help carers put in requests, ask questions, and access support.
“People got together and decided to help make volunteer telephone befriending service, after I suggested it to the team.”
Although he had no previous experience in his own life with caring, Chris quickly learnt a lot about the different caring situations many people go through, and developed a way of speaking with people that made them feel heard and supported. He shares how he found it “interesting to learn more about caring, as caring is a huge part of modern society.” He takes great pride in knowing he has helped someone, in any way, to seek support.
His role as telephone befriender involves calling and checking in with people to see if they are still in their caring role, and assess whether they would benefit from support. Chris is open about the positive experience he has had during his 16 years volunteering for Carers First. His role was suited to him, and he was able to make the calls to carers from his own home, which was ideal for his situation. He is also very appreciative of how independent and supportive the charity has been of him since his very first day with us.
“Nobody tried to manage me at all, and left me to be independent, which was sensible. There was that trust between me as a volunteer and the charity.”
The greatest part about his volunteer role, though, is the satisfaction of knowing he has helped someone just by making a phone call. Whether it’s a friendly voice to speak to, a question answered, or helping someone realise they are a carer, deserving of support, Chris has been a point of support for many people.
“The satisfaction of helping people is rewarding. I’m talking to someone new each time I volunteer. It’s nice to know they got a great deal of help just from my phone call. Knowing I’ve helped hundreds and hundreds of carers.”
Chris recommends volunteering to anyone considering it, and has only positive things to say about how beneficial the selfless act of volunteering is to both you, and the carer you’re supporting.
“It’s a two-way thing. The satisfaction of helping people, and also improving yourself and spending valuable time doing something.”
If Chris’ story has inspired you to become a volunteer for Carers First, visit our page to view the many roles we offer.
Online Help and Advice
Visit our online support section where we have provided advice and guidance on a range of relevant topics to help you in your caring role.