Trustee Story - Moin, Trustee with Outlookers

23rd October 2023

About you

I am the founder and owner of Valli Opticians, an award-winning company and one the largest independent opticians’ groups in the UK.

How did you find out about becoming a Charity Trustee?

In 2016, a business colleague of mine saw a post by Outlookers (formerly known as Kirklees Visual Impairment Network ) who at the time were looking for trustees.  I went and met the founder and Chair, David Quarmby, and was impressed by his passion and the work the charity was delivering.  I realised there was a lot of value I could personally add with my business experience and agreed to become a trustee.

Can you give us some examples of the tasks you undertake in your Trustee role:

As vice-chair, I get involved in many tasks such as strategy, business development, finance, fundraising, and recruitment.

We merged with another charity this year and I lead on the work that needed to be carried out on this.  This was a complex and varied task at times where we needed to ensure the legal aspects of the merger were carried out correctly.

I also lead on the project to rebrand the charity, from sourcing the correct marketing agency, right through to working with other Outlookers colleagues to ensure the new brand was a true representation of the charity.

How has becoming a Charity Trustee made a difference to your life?

There is a great quote which is “Always give without remembering and always receive without forgetting”.  My family brought me up like this and I try to live in this way.  What we have achieved in the 7 years I have been a trustee has been outstanding. My goal when I joined Outlookers was to help the charity grow. The work Outlookers carry out is exceptional and extremely relevant, however we needed to reach more people in the visually impaired community to provide them with the outstanding peer support and technology support Outlookers specialise in. We now have multiple drop-in centres across Kirklees and every person we help is an achievement we are immensely proud of.

What would you say to encourage other people to consider becoming a Charity Trustee?

For me, becoming a trustee gave me the opportunity to play a role in a completely different organisation to my day job.  I love working with incredibly talented and humble people, helping to shape a charity that I am passionate about, and having a real say in issues that are meaningful to me.

Has Moin inspired you? If you are interested in finding out more about becoming a Trustee please visit:

https://tslkirklees.org.uk/have-you-ever-thought-about-becoming-a-charity-trustee/

YCC achieve volunteering quality award.. again!

22nd July 2023

Congratulations to the team at YCC for once again achieving the Kirklees Volunteering Quality Award! This quality standard is recognised across Yorkshire and demonstrates that an organisation is following national good practice in relation to how they support their Volunteers. The award is valid for 3 years and then organisations must re-apply. As part of the process the Assessors speak to senior decision makers, staff and most importantly Volunteers to check they are receiving a high quality volunteering experience. YCC involve volunteers across many of their services including their Community Friends programme (which supports adults who are isolated and lonely) and their Stay and Play and Child Contact Centre; supporting families. The Kirklees Volunteering Quality Award is free to apply for and organisations can gain support from TSL Kirklees volunteering service during the process. For more information contact: volunteer@tslkirklees.org.uk

AUNTIE PAM'S ACHIEVE VOLUNTEER AWARD AGAIN!

15th March 2022

Congratulations to Auntie Pam’s who have once again achieved the Kirklees Volunteering Quality Award! The award recognises organisations that offer a high quality volunteering experience and is valid for 3 years, when it then needs to be renewed.

Auntie Pam’s is a place for parents-to-be to get support and help about issues relating to pregnancy and becoming a parent at their centres in Huddersfield and Dewsbury. The service involves a team of Volunteer Peer Supporters who are there to listen, offer support, guidance and signposting as well as sharing their own experiences when appropriate. Achieving the Quality Award means that Auntie Pam’s offers a positive and well-supported experience for their volunteers.

Becky  Bracey, Volunteer Services Lead at TSL Kirklees commented:

” We are delighted to present Auntie Pam’s with the Kirklees Volunteering Quality Award again. The panel members were particularly impressed with Auntie Pam’s training and support for Volunteers and the opportunities for personal development. The model of experienced Volunteers mentoring new Volunteers was also highlighted along with the accredited training programme which provides an opportunity for Volunteers to specialise in a subject area. It was such a pleasure to carry out the assessment and find out more about the fantastic work of Auntie Pam’s”.

Lisa Akester, Service Manager received the award on behalf of the service along with a Peer Support Volunteer.

To find out more about volunteering with Auntie Pam’s here.

Helen and Keith's Volunteer Story

1st October 2020

How did you find out about volunteering?

We moved to the area three years and were very involved in the community where we used to live. As we are retired, we felt volunteering was a good way to meet new people. We heard about the Kirkwood and thought it would be worth exploring volunteering with them. We made an appointment to go and speak with their Volunteer Co-ordinator, who was inspirational,  and we decided we would like to support the charity.  It was clear from the start that the Kirkwood wasn’t just a place but was a community, comprising of patients and their families, staff and volunteers and we were made to feel very welcome.

What type of activities do you usually do when you volunteer ?

We decided to allocate one day a week to the Kirkwood and began volunteering in the inpatient unit as ‘Patient Enabling Volunteers’.

After receiving training, we would visit the hospice in Dalton and speak with the patients and explore what would help them get the most out of their stay at the hospice. It might be something as simple as accessing some knitting needles and wool, finding a jigsaw, nipping out to the newsagents to get their favourite magazine, or playing dominoes. Sometimes we helped to organise more out of the ordinary requests (with the relevant permissions and if it is safe and appropriate). For example, one patient was terribly missing her cat that she hadn’t seen for six weeks, so we managed to arrange for her relative to bring the cat in. It was lovely to see the cat sat there like the Queen of Sheba! Another gentleman simply missed going out for a pub lunch, so this was duly arranged.

We also took on extra training to become Volunteer Befrienders and have been visiting people in their own home or out and about, who are socially isolated.

We are also Ambassadors for the Kirkwood which has involved delivering talks to organisations like University of 3^rd Age and  Probus etc. The talks involve raising awareness of the hospice and sharing our volunteering experience. I think some people think we are going to ask them for money, but is more about spreading the message of the great work of the Kirkwood.

How has your volunteer role changed ?

Due to Covid, the visiting arrangements have changed and the Kirkwood must now keep as many people as possible away from the hospice building.

As a result, our volunteer roles have developed and we have now become telephone befrienders. We each have 3 ‘befriendees’ we engage with regularly who live on their own and are socially isolated.  Befriending is interesting because although it is a structured arrangement, the person becomes your friend and we are getting as much out of it as they are.

What do you like about your Volunteer role?

We have met some wonderful people through Kirkwood, for example one elderly patient would read poems out to me, she was very creative and was always doing things that energised her. I still have the last poem that she wrote about Kirkwood in her handwriting which was a privilege.

How has volunteering made a difference to you?

Kirkwood has become our community and we know lots of people there and feel a part of something. When we were visiting every Wednesday, we structured our week around it, and we hope we can return again. On a very personal level, life could pass you by without these engagements we have had- volunteering has been emotionally rewarding and mutually beneficial. Because of the way the Kirkwood values and welcomes volunteers you do very quickly get a sense of being part of a friendly community.

To find out more about The Kirkwood and how you can be involved visit: https://www.thekirkwood.org.uk/

You can view current Volunteer roles with The Kirkwood on our website.https://volunteering.tslkirklees.org.uk/opportunities/?s=kirkwood

Growing Works Achieve Quality Award

10th August 2020

We are delighted to present Growing Works with the Kirklees Volunteering Quality Award. Growing Works is a charity based in Huddersfield, delivering therapeutic outdoor activities for families with different needs as well as people in isolated and vulnerable circumstances and those with mental health issues.
Through this programme of gardening and other outdoor activities the charity also works to educate the local community about the importance and benefits of the
natural environment.

As part of the quality award process Growing Works were supported to review  their volunteering offer to ensure they are following national good practice and offering high quality volunteering opportunities.

We presented the Quality Award at their Almondbury Community Allotment which was bursting with produce and colour.

Sian Taylor, Volunteer Coordinator at Growing Works commented:

“Working towards the volunteering award helped us to create a good structure for volunteering at Growing Works with clarity around the roles on offer, how to apply and what to expect. TSL Kirklees Volunteering supported us through the process and provided advice and guidance wherever needed.

Volunteers are vital to Growing Works, they guide our work, support our projects and events, and share our news.  They are an essential part of the Growing Works team.”

To find out more about Growing Works visit  www.growingworks.org.uk/

For more information about our quality award contact Becky Bracey, Volunteer Development Manager email: becky@tslkirklees.org.uk 

Volunteer Information Session via Zoom

6th August 2020

Supported Volunteering Session (via Zoom)

6th August 2020

Support into Volunteering Session

Thursday 27^th August 2pm – 3pm (via Zoom so you will need access to the internet)

This 1 hour session is for people that might need a bit of help to access volunteering. The group session will be delivered by Sharron and Becky from the volunteering team and will provide a good introduction to volunteering, why you might want to volunteer and how we can help you along the way. We will talk about our Volunteer Buddy scheme and give you the opportunity to book a one to one appointment as a follow up. This will be a very friendly session and you can choose to turn off your camera and microphone if you would just like to listen in.

To book your free place, refer somebody else or find out if the session is right for you please email: volunteer@tslkirklees.org.uk or tel. Becky 07776588691

Volunteer Stories from Almondbury

7th June 2020

CAROLINE’S STORY

I have been a PTA volunteer at Rowley Lane School for 6 years, 3 years as Chair.  As Chair I was responsible for all the fundraising events we organised each year, which amounted to funds of over £10,000 per annum. Now having stepped back as chair last year, I have continued my involvement in a marketing capacity, promoting events via our PTA social media account.

Over the last twelve months I became involved with the initial set up and launch of Almondbury Business and Community Association. I am currently responsible for the association’s marketing and social media along with Liz whom I volunteer alongside and work closely with. I support and promote the organisation in our local area and help to launch one-off projects.

I happily give up my free time volunteering because I enjoy seeing the positive results that can be achieved. I have always liked to help and approach situations in a positive way. My marketing background and love of social media and copy writing really helps in my role within the business association. I think it’s really important to support local businesses and to shop local as much as possible. There is so much available on our doorstep. I love to discover all that is going on and meeting new people. I enjoy using social media to increase awareness of  all these wonderful things!

I personally get a lot of satisfaction from volunteering and have realised over the last few years that I must be naturally drawn to it. I love working with the team at Almondbury Business and Community Association, everyone is so enthusiastic and positive!

EILEEN’S STORY

I have volunteered in a broad range of volunteer roles over the years. These have included as a Magistrate for 28 years (now retired and on supplemental list), Sports Umpire and organiser both at local and regional level and a Speaker at community events. I also volunteer at Ambrys Community Cafe which is run by volunteers. Due to lockdown I haven’t been able to volunteer as I would like, apart from a few socially distanced outdoor activities,I like volunteering because I enjoy meeting people and feeling useful. Volunteering provides a worthwhile experience both for me and others, it makes me feel valued and appreciated. I have always found volunteering to be rewarding because people really appreciate volunteers as they are giving back what they benefitted from. It also brings communities together and gives them a sense of ownership.

LIZ’S STORY

I have been volunteering with Almondbury Business and Community Association as a Marketing Volunteer for about 6 months. I mainly help the organisation with marketing and branding.  Recently I have also enjoyed being involved with “Almondbury HeART which has been a project featuring wooden hearts that a family created and distributing them to different locations. It has helped to bring in the young people of our community and has been really positive. It has really brought our  young and older people together. I have helped to organise the hearts being displayed in certain places such as local care homes, Kirkwood Hospice and all around the Almondbury village.

For anyone thinking of volunteering I would say “Try it” It doesn’t have to be a lot of time. I have 3 young children and I’m also involved in our family business but still have time to give back to the community. I have met some wonderful people along the way and its great how a smallish group can generate such positive results within the local area.

HELEN’S STORY

Can you tell us how you got in to volunteering?     I moved to Huddersfield from the South and joined the local PTA Associations at Almondbury Infants and Juniors schools. I then volunteered at the junior school as a classroom assistant. I did these as I wanted to develop relationships as I was new to the area and also to give something back to the community. The people I met there are still friends now, 20 years later!   Other volunteering that I have done was overseas with Raleigh International, a sustainable charity in 2018 (https://raleighinternational.org/) where I went to Borneo for 16 weeks. I volunteered as an Administrator in the Borneo operations office where I was responsible for helping with the smooth running of the expedition. I also spent some time on project in the rainforest helping build a bridge working with young adults building their skills. I then set up Almondbury Business and Community Association (ABCA) http://almondbury.org/about-us/  in 2019 because I wanted to help support small businesses and my local community.   I like to share knowledge and experience to assist others. I am a Trustee at Growing Works http://www.growingworks.org.uk/  where I first went to do willow weaving and then became involved with the charity. As a trustee I have helped to support the Project Manager and staff and work with fellow trustees to grow the charity. I like people to succeed and to help people. Growing Works has an allotment in Almondbury and also one nearby just off Wakefield Road at Dalton.  

So, what is it about volunteering that you like?     To see positive change from my contribution. I like to help make things happen! I like to get to meet and know people as well as have a passion for things to be successful. I have some time now and for me it’s about giving back to help others.  https://theimplementer.co.uk/

You can find out more about Almondbury Business and Community Association here

To read Jake’s (Chair of ABCA) story click here 

You can find out more about Ambrys Community Cafe here

You can also read Patrycja’s Story from Almondbury Solidarity Against Coronavirus here

VOLUNTEER STORIES FROM THE MAGIC WISHING WELL

5th June 2020

DANIEL’S VOLUNTEER STORY

I was working alongside the founder of The Magic Wishing Well and I was invited to help out with the charity work, especially during the Covid-19 crisis as i was short of work and in a position to help. The main aim of the charity is to provide once in a lifetime activities and opportunities for kids, mainly who have terminal or life-limiting illnesses. We also do work overseas supplying food and other things needed by refugees in areas such as Burma, Syria and Pakistan.

During the pandemic we have had to focus much more locally, shopping for elderly local residents whilst they isolate, and providing food parcels to any struggling families. We have also been providing vital supplies to local care homes, hospitals and homeless shelters.

The Magic Wishing Well also have a fantastic and diverse team which as easy to get on with. I enjoy seeing how you can improve someone’s life with simple gestures and tasks. Meeting new people and having a good team ethic throughout is just a bonus. I would encourage anyone to try volunteering, especially if they would like a better idea of how the world works. They would learn from the charity they volunteer with and the people they are helping.

Chairman and one of the Founders of the Charity, Shakeel tells us about his daughter volunteering:

ALEIRA’S VOLUNTEER STORY

Aleira is 15 years old and has been volunteering across our organisations since the start of Covid-19. She has helped refugees, the homeless and vulnerable migrants and supported them to access services and integrate into the community. She finds her role as a volunteer enjoyable and has changed lots  of peoples lives for the better, she even purchased food parcels for the elderly and homeless from her own savings.

Aleira has also been promoting the services we offer via our social media platforms. She has also proved to be a volunteer who will go out of her way to help others in any way she can and she is currently supporting many families through this difficult time. We are lucky to have Aleira she is compassionate and always keen to support others in any way she can.

The Magic Wishing Well are based in Liversedge, you can find out more on their facebook page

COMMUNITIES IN ACTION - RESPONDING TO CORONAVIRUS

2nd June 2020

Communities across Kirklees have worked tirelessly to help people in need during the Coronavirus pandemic. Here at Third Sector Leaders Kirklees, we have been supporting the network of charities, community groups and and newly formed mutual aid groups who have responded.

Bridget, our colleague who has been leading on this work commented:

“All our lives changed overnight on March 23rd. But from the chaos, confusion and uncertainty created by Covid-19 emerged an amazing group of people  – the Kirklees mutual aid volunteers. Getting to know them as colleagues and friends during the last 10 weeks as been a great joy amidst the challenges of lockdown. I feel privileged to have worked with them and witnessed what they have achieved. Thank you mutual aid and community volunteers everywhere – for your compassion, hard work, resourcefulness, creativity and complete refusal to ever, ever give up.”

Here are just a few stories from some of those Volunteers, Charities and Community Groups:

CHICKENLEY COMMUNITY HUB

“Chickenley Community Centre is central hub of the community. We have been distributing food parcels across Dewsbury East since March. This has been a co-ordinated effort of a team of 6 Volunteers.  The COVID 19 Coronavirus has brought the best out in people. It has brought us together to support each other.  Neighbours and passers by are taking the time to say Hello or a simple acknowledgement of each other.  We have worked with many partners in order for peoples needs to be met.” – Cathy and Paul

“Working as a volunteer at Chickenley Food Bank during this crisis has given me the opportunity to support local people. This has also helped me keep focussed as a person and made the isolation a little less stressful by keeping busy.” – Kerry,

ALMONDBURY SOLIDARITY AGAINST CORONAVIRUS

“On 15th March I set up a Mutual aid group with the support of good friends who as much as myself care for community. We have been on a very unusual journey so far, to me this experience is all about coming together as fellow human beings, it has been an eye opener of how many people are just forgotten by society and how very happy their faces are when you come and help without expecting anything in return. Every day something new happens, there are some wonderful stories when we as a group been able to help someone who was on their last food supplies and they saw our posters and phoned us. I have cried several times and I have laughed many times knowing that yet another person can sleep well without worrying about shopping or running out of medicines.

View Patrycja’s full Volunteer Story here.

“I think it’s important to give back to your community, now more than ever! It’s a very small amount of time taken out of my day yet helps to make a big difference to the lives of others. The two people I help both live alone so it’s not just about having someone to drop off their shopping but having someone to chat to and share a few stories with is something they really appreciate.” Read Sophie’s full Volunteer story here

JUBILEE CENTRE

“A few weeks ago this group of amazing people, didn’t know each other, but now they are part of a team with the shared purpose of ‘Loving Our Neighbours’. They are loving people through this lockdown and there isn’t anything that is too much trouble for them. Some of the stories they have to share, of lives they have touched and friendships they have made, is truly inspiring. Looking forward to seeing this team grow, as we continue to look out for our neighbours and strengthen our communities, even after Covid!” – Charlene

YORKSHIRE CHILDREN’S CENTRE – BATLEY AND BIRSTALL COMMUNITY VOLUNTEERS

The Batley and Birstall Community Anchor team at Yorkshire Children’s Centre would like to say a huge ‘thank you’ to all the wonderful Mutual Aid Groups (MAGS) and volunteers who have supported us with our Community Response requests to help the most vulnerable and those shielding and isolating due to Covid-19.   During the past few weeks we have been supported with well over 100 requests for those living in the Batley and Birstall area, helping to provide food parcels, facilitating shopping requests, collecting prescriptions, dog walking and so much more.  This tremendous response is something we would not have been able to achieve without the vital support of community volunteers.

We have received fantastic feedback from our follow-up and check- in calls with individuals who have been helped.   In many cases the appreciation was not only for the support for the tasks in hand. but by the volunteers adding a little extra in taking additional time with individuals and connecting by having a face-to-face (socially distanced!)  5 – 10-minute chat.  For many this may have been the first and only contact or conversation they have had with another person in several weeks.

We are aware that many volunteers have been dedicating days, evenings, and weekends in helping others.  The level of support being provided is exceptional and genuinely appreciated.

LOCAL SERVICES 2 YOU WORKING WITH LINDLEY MUTUAL AID GROUP

“Working with LINDLEY Mag  has been a true pleasure – Shafena (and her Mum too), Chrissie and Lisa are ‘all over’ this and do not let a stone go unturned until peoples issues are solved. They really do care – they would be a god send to any Third Sector organisation as an employee.” – Lisa Newbold – Local Services 2 You, community anchor organisation.

Lindley group coordinators – Chrissie, Shafena and Lisa – helping the Jubilees Centre Mutual Aid group pack donated items for distribution to isolated people.

THE 20:20 FOUNDATION IN DEWSBURY

“I was pleased to volunteer with the 20:20 Foundation when local people needed help. There has been an amazing community response to the Cornavirus crisis in the Dewsbury West area. Lots of people have been donating food and other items. I have been volunteering 3 or 4 days a week helping put the food parcels together, it has been hard fasting and still going to volunteer. Some people have been really upset and in tears as they didn’t realise someone could help. This crisis has made the community come closer together, it doesn’t matter what colour or faith, everyone has been helping each other.” – Nargis. You can read more about the 20:20 Foundation Community Response here

GOLCAR MUTUAL AID GROUP

‘The Collie Squad’ Golcar Volunteer Dog Walkers

“I have been so tremendously proud of the way Golcar has responded to support its own, and others, as a resilient, ‘can do’ community. We have 169 Good Neighbour volunteers who have been delivering shopping, walking dogs, collecting prescriptions and posting letters. We have 26 buddies assisting 28 residents who live on their own, and a regular weekly call back in place for 50 residents.

Our fabulously industrious Makers have made 413 laundry bags, 76 sets of scrubs, and 118 ear protectors.  We have run donations of cards chocolates and craft materials to local Care Homes, toiletries to HRI staff and toys for local families in need. We also work in conjunction with the wonderful Clems Nursery to provide flower posies every fortnight  to our buddied residents – our ‘You are Not Forgotten’ flowers.

When I look back on what this village has achieved over the last 2 months, I am struck by how much talent, skill & goodwill is out there.  I count myself lucky to live in such a lovely place with such wonderful people.”

Jane Smith, Coordinator at Golcar Covid-19 Mutual Aid

This is just a taste of the amazing work that has been going on across Kirklees.

You can find out more about the community response to COVID-19 in Kirklees here: https://communityresponsekirklees.com/posts/ 

If you are community group responding to the Coronavirus in Kirklees that need some help please email:  bridget@tslkirklees.org.uk

Patrycja's Story - setting up a Mutual Aid Group

2nd June 2020

WHY DID YOU SET UP THE GROUP?

When the Government announced that Elderly and vulnerable people will have to stay indoors for the next 12 weeks, it was clear to me that we needed some sort of local support for those people, as many of them would not have access to modern technology and even if they do they might not have been able to figure out how to do online shopping etc. It was also the moment that panic buying had started and I was worried that those elderly people would run out of basic supplies in a very short time. So on 15th of March  I set up a Mutual aid group  “Almondbury Solidarity Against Coronavirus”  (ASAC) with the support of good friends who as much as myself care for community.

HOW HAS THE EXPERIENCE BEEN?

We have been on a very unusual journey so far, to me this experience is all about coming together as fellow human beings, it has been an eye opener of how many people are just forgotten by society and how very happy their faces are when you come and help without expecting anything in return. I have given a lot of time, energy skills and experience to it, but without other people’s help I could not do it, so it is all about sharing.

As a Mutual Aid Group coordinator I have had the pleasure to meet some wonderful people, most of them are from my local area, and without ASAC I would have not know them. I also met some great people from other MAG’s and organisations around Kirklees, including many council employees that I was never aware of and did not knew about the important jobs they are doing.

Every day something new happens, there are some wonderful stories when we as a group been able to help someone who was on their last food supplies and they saw our posters and phoned us… I have cried several times and I have laughed many times knowing that yet another person can sleep well without worrying about next shopping or running out of medicines.

I have learned a lot in those past few weeks, I have also notice how grateful I am for all I have and with each day that feeling of gratitude gets bigger and bigger, this is all thanks to our volunteers who I just admire; some of the people who are volunteering with us do so for several people every week and it make me feel so proud and so happy that I can be part of it, part of community that cares.

WHAT ARE YOUR PLANS FOR THE FUTURE?

Personally I will continue helping people for as long as I can, I believe that volunteering makes us better people, not better than others but better then we ourselves were before.

You can read  more stories from communities responding to the Coronavirus pandemic here

You can find out more about the community response to COVID-19 in Kirklees here: https://communityresponsekirklees.com/posts/ 

If you are community group responding to the Coronavirus in Kirklees that need some help please email:  bridget@tslkirklees.org.uk

Tanis' Story - tackling loneliness in Dalton

1st June 2020

HOW DID YOU START VOLUNTEERING?

I have been volunteering at Rawthorpe and Dalton Library for about three and a half years. When I started we were asked by the staff if I had any ideas to bring more people into the library, and I suggested a Knit and Natter group which they liked the idea of and asked if I would set it up. The group took a while to get going but we now have 25 people on our register. The session lasts a couple of hours and you can bring knitting, crochet, quilting, etc –  and some ladies just come for the natter ! The group is an opportunity to meet new people and exchange skills and experience. This has led to a second group being set up at the Library called Men’s Matters. Men come and play cards and dominoes etc and have a chat and a piece of cake. The men’s group has also taken part in a cookery course and contributed to a charity cook book.

As the library is currently closed, I have been ringing the groups’ members to keep in touch with them. I try to make sure everyone receives a phone call at least once a fortnight, which they really seem to appreciate, as many live on their own or are carers, so are feeling particularly isolated at the moment. I also volunteer as a ‘Words In Mind’ Volunteer with Third Sector Leaders Kirklees using reading to help people with their wellbeing. I attended training for the role, which included dementia awareness, and became a Dementia Friend. I host a Words In Mind group in a local Care Home where some of the residents are living with dementia. Through volunteering, I have learnt a lot about dementia and how to support people with the disease. I think it would benefit everyone to learn more about dementia and how they can help people affected by it.

In the past, I have volunteered as an English Home Tutor for newly arrived migrants, and as a School Governor for many years. Volunteering can teach you a lot about yourself and your skills and qualities; it can also be a stepping-stone to paid employment.

WHAT DO YOU GET OUT OF VOLUNTEERING?

Rawthorpe and Dalton Library staff are very good at appreciating what the volunteers contribute.I have made friends and acquaintances that I have grown fond of and I can go to if I have a problem, or share a laugh. Volunteering is very much a team effort. I think as you get older it is important to keep your mind alert. Volunteering can be a good way to stimulate your brain and learn new things and people. I feel I am part of a team of like-minded people who want to support the local community. Volunteering can benefit everyone, as you get so much from it and feel you are useful – it’s very much a two- way street. I would recommend anyone to have a go.

To find a Volunteer role to suit you, visit our opportunities page.

Paul's Story - Giving time to Older People

1st June 2020

HOW DID YOU START VOLUNTEERING?

I visited the Volunteer Centre in Huddersfield to enquire about volunteering and decided to get involved with the Yorkshire Children’s Centre who were looking for Volunteers to help isolated people with IT skills for 4 or 5 weeks. 7 years on and I am still visiting the gentleman I was matched with!

WHAT VOLUNTEERING DO YOU DO?

I usually make a weekly visit to the gentleman’s home. As a Wheelchair user who is isolated he is unable to get out on his own so we also go to the pub twice a month and on occasional trips such as to the National Coal Mining Museum. I also take round a Christmas Dinner every year. At the moment I am unable to visit him, so we are keeping in contact by telephone instead.

I also run a group called ‘Young at Heart’ which is a social craft group for people dealing with mental health issues, loneliness and isolation. We usually meet at Jo Cox House and we organise transport so there are no barriers for people attending. As we can’t run the service at the moment we are making weekly phone calls to the 15 group members – making sure they have food and medicines. Many of these people aren’t seeing anyone at the moment so the friendly phone calls are important to them.

Over the years I have also got involved in other volunteering opportunities including ‘Words In Mind’ – which is a social reading group helping people with their mental wellbeing. During the lockdown I have been sending the group members poems, texts and funny emails which they have appreciated.

I also volunteer with the Royal Voluntary Service as a Telephone Befriender and I have helped to design a ‘Silver Surfer’ six week computer course for older people.

Through these volunteer roles I have developed an interest in older peoples’ welfare, which I have become passionate about as they are often side-lined in society.

WHY DO YOU VOLUNTEER?

I volunteer to help people but also to keep myself busy and occupied. I have suffered from depression and volunteering has pulled me out of it.

Six years ago, I had a really bad time and volunteering has done as much for me as for those I am helping. You get so much more out of it than you expect, you think you are helping people, but you come away feeling ‘that was good’. 

I would encourage anyone new to volunteering to consider telephone befriending, it is the ideal first step. I have underlying health issues and need to isolate at the moment, so for me, giving half an hour out of my week to ring someone is really worthwhile.

To view telephone befriending roles visit our opportunities page

VOLUNTEER STORIES FROM THE 20:20 FOUNDATION

1st June 2020

The 20:20 Foundation have been supporting people in need in the Dewsbury area during the Coronavirus pandemic.

NARGIS’ STORY

I have been volunteering in the Green wood Centre Library and I have worked with lots of charities over the years as I have a passion that I like helping people. So I was pleased to volunteer with the 20:20 Foundation when local people needed help. There has been an amazing community response to the Cornavirus crisis in the Dewsbury West area. Lots of people have been donating food and other items. I have been volunteering 3 or 4 days a week helping put the food parcels together, it has been hard fasting and still going to volunteer.

Some people have been really upset and in tears as they didn’t realise someone could help. This crisis has made the community come closer together, it doesn’t matter what colour or faith, everyone has been helping each other.

We have all been working together as a team, I have met lots of new people and I hope it will continue in the future as there are people that still need help.

20:20 foundation have brought people closer together, people talk with each other more and are more open and relaxed. I just want to say that the local Councillors, businesses, 20:20 Foundation and Volunteers have done so well, I am really proud, it has been amazing.

CLLR PERVAIZ’ STORY

I have volunteered previously with the 20:20 Foundation helping out on trips for vulnerable people to the seaside and activities for disabled children. When Covid-19 happened it was very difficult time for everyone, so we quickly began working together with other Councillors and the 20:20 Foundation to set up some support.

I have been making up food parcels, labelling them and delivering them to people who may be in financial need or isolating. We ask people to answer a simple questionnaire so we can assess their need, people on zero hour contracts and single parents have been particularly affected. We encourage people who are eligible to apply for Universal Credit but it can take 5 weeks to receive the money.

Our food parcels cost between £15 and £20 – people can make a donation towards the cost if they can afford to. We are also carrying out supermarket shopping and collecting prescriptions for people who are isolating.

I have been volunteering every day making up 20-25 food parcels a day and we make sure people can eat healthily so it includes plenty of fruit and veg.

As a diabetic I need to make sure I am looking after myself when I volunteer, we have all been provided with PPE and make sure we social distance when we volunteer. I have always been passionate about volunteering, I am fortunate that my parents have always encouraged me to get out and help others. As a Councillor, living in the Dewsbury West Ward people feel they can approach me for help and trust me. This is important as people don’t always like to talk about their family and household issues with strangers. I feel very proud of what we have achieved. Seeing the number of vulnerable people in my community has touched my heart.

MAYOR OF KIRKLEES CLLR MUMTAZ HUSSAIN’S STORY

When the pandemic started, I contacted a few people to see what we could do to help vulnerable people in our community. We worked with Starr at the 20:20 Foundation and other Councillors and community members to set up a food parcel service.

We are mainly covering the Dewsbury West Ward but we have also helped people in Mirfield and Dewsbury South and East. We are working with local schools such as Diamond Wood Academy, health centres and Kirklees Council to make sure we are reaching people in need who are isolating or in financial crisis.

Some people are shy and find it hard to ask for help, so we have also taken vans of food out to the streets to offer help. I have been a Councillor for 14 years so I have a good knowledge of areas where there may be people who are vulnerable.

The volunteers who have come forward to help have been fantastic – not just in our Ward but across Kirklees. There are so many charities and organisations doing fantastic work, it has opened my eyes, without them I don’t know what we would do.

Starr at the 20:20 foundation has been working 24/7 in the community centre. He is talking to businesses and helping people – you need someone to coordinate who brings everyone together. We needed a large space to store the food and where the volunteers could socially distance, so we must also thank the community centres across Kirklees who have opened their doors rent-free to host the Cornavirus community responses.

I get a good night’s sleep knowing I have done something good to help someone vulnerable and needy. We are in a world-wide difficult situation, a lot of people have come out to volunteer, all doing their bit to help others.

I feel proud to being helping others, but it’s not just about Coronavirus, we still need to be working in the community and keep this going. I hope at some point we will be able to bring all the charities and voluntary groups together to say thank you, learn from each other and plan for the future.

Over 600 food parcels have been delivered to date. You can find out more about the 20:20 Foundation by visiting their facebook page.

If you live in Kirklees and need help, you can contact the Kirklees Council Coronavirus helpline:  0800 4561114 (8am to 6pm weekdays, 10am to 4pm weekends and bank holidays)

A View from a Charity Trustee

1st June 2020

Adrian is Trustee and Chair of River Holme Connections – a local charity which aims to improve the whole of the River Holme Catchment by connecting people, businesses and wildlife.  They provide practical volunteering opportunities and have a full programme of walks, talks and training events. Adrian also volunteers with the Peak District National Park Authority.

HOW DID YOU FIND OUT ABOUT VOLUNTEERING?

My parents instilled a ‘give more than you take’ principle. I have been volunteering in communities I have lived in since a child mainly in the areas of community wellbeing, scouting and environmental causes. With River Holme connections I worked with other like-minded trustees to establish the volunteering programme. It has exceeded all expectations. The volunteers are wonderful not least their knowledge and care for the River Holme.

WHAT TYPES OF ACTIVITIES DO YOU USUALLY DO WHEN YOU VOLUNTEER?

Most of my volunteering is spent on helping lead the charity. This includes keeping in touch with other trustees and staff, chairing our quarterly meetings; looking ahead and spotting opportunities for the team to follow up; writing / editing some funding bids and providing assurance of the capital projects we have delivered. I do also greatly enjoy the practical work, for example balsam bashing and river clean-ups.

HOW HAS YOUR ROLE CHANGED DUE TO THE CORONAVIRUS?

Very little has changed as a lot of my time is spent on the phone, email or computer. Of course the practical tasks have stopped but I know we will be returning to those when the time is right – hopefully shortly!

WHAT DO YOU LIKE ABOUT VOLUNTEERING?

I like meeting and learning from other people. I also greatly enjoy walking my dog, Maisy down by the river taking in the changes such as access and wildlife improvements and feeling proud that I have played a very small part in improving the river environment for others to enjoy. The highlight this year was spotting two kingfishers in Magwood and Holmfirth.

I would like to say thank you to all volunteers. Our special places like The River Holme benefit hugely from your time, expertise and financial contributions.

You can find out more about River Home Connections here.

Tim's Story - Dementia Support, DIY and more!

1st June 2020

HOW DID YOU GET INTO VOLUNTEERING?

My Mum and Dad were always helping people and I was brought up to help my neighbours from a young age. My first formal volunteering was with Jersey Zoo when I was working on the island. I helped out on a weekend making sure the visitors didn’t feed the monkeys!

When my Mum developed dementia, My Wife and I looked after her and we attended a few groups, I saw how important the volunteers were to keeping the groups running . During that period, I didn’t have time to volunteer, but when Mum went into a care home I had more time for myself and needed something else to keep me busy.

I started volunteering with the British Wireless for the Blind – delivering radios to visually impaired people and helping them set them up.

I also wanted to support people with dementia because I had picked up a lot of skills from helping my Mum and attending the various groups. I went along to a local Dementia network meeting where I met Christine and she suggested I volunteer with the Dementia Support Group at Yorkshire Children’s Centre.

This group which meets on Thursday afternoons is aimed at people of working age who are living with early onset dementia.

At the group we have a good chat and eat a lot of cake! Its lovely spending time with interesting people, and we all have a tale to tell. The other volunteers are brilliant and I was welcomed like a friend. You can see by the end of each session how people have got something out of it and their mood has lifted. We sometimes go out and about, a trip on the canal, or a day at St Annes being the highlights. I don’t want another job, so although I commit to my volunteering it has to fit in with my other activities. An hour or so a week can make an enormous difference to organisations.

I have also started volunteering with The Samaritans – I saw the role advertised on the Volunteering Kirklees website. I support them behind the scenes with the maintenance and upkeep of their Huddersfield call centre and charity shop. I have installed a shower cubicle, put up shelves and made a stand for a hand sanitiser.

HOW HAS YOUR VOLUNTEERING CHANGED DUE TO THE CORONAVIRUS PANDEMIC?

We can’t currently run the Dementia group sessions, so we are keeping in touch by making regular phone calls to the participants and checking they are getting everything need.

I have now also started telephone befriending along with my wife. On Thursday afternoons I ring four folk for a chat – sometimes it might be a quick hello, or if the conversation starts rolling we could be on the phone for 45 minutes. I have spoken to some incredible people with amazing lives and we have had some very entertaining conversations. People really do appreciate that human contact over the phone, it’s surprising and humbling.

WHY DO YOU VOLUNTEER?

Had I not started volunteering, I would be rattling around the house. My job involved travelling a lot so I didn’t build up a large social network. Volunteering enables me to meet people I wouldn’t normally come across in my social circle. I like to use the skills I have, and am also learning new ones all the time. Volunteering keeps me active, it’s good for the body and mind.  Volunteering is your own personal choice, you can find something that interests you and try out things you never thought you would do.

For me it’s about the self-satisfaction of being useful. When I go to the Thursday group we have a right good chat and I feel a sense of achievement every week. The most valuable thing you can do is give your time.

If you are thinking of volunteering in Kirklees visit our opportunities page to find something right for you.

VOLUNTEER STORIES FROM RIVER HOLME CONNECTIONS

1st June 2020

River Holme Connections is a local charity with an aim to improve the whole of the River Holme Catchment by connecting people, businesses and wildlife.  They provide practical volunteering opportunities and have a full programme of walks, talks and training events. Find out what their volunteers have been up to over the last year, how volunteering has changed at the moment, and why they do it:

SUE’S STORY

I found out about volunteering through a friend who was already involved. I help with anything that needs doing in or along the river. This could include litter picking, balsam bashing or hedge and tree planting. I also get involved with fundraising, photography and baking cakes for volunteer days! At the moment I don’t get to work with the other volunteers but I have carried on litter picking and producing videos and more recently wild flower planting. I enjoy making the area where I live better by all the things we do and being with like minded people. Volunteering gives me structure to my weeks. I’ve met lots of new people and learned about invasive species like balsam and knotweed. I really look forward to our 3rd Saturday work days and always feel tired but energised afterwards.

MICHAEL’S STORY

I got involved after reading some local publicity about River Holme Connections and also through facebook. I really enjoy the variety of volunteer tasks including fish monitoring, invasive species removal and educating school groups. At the moment we aren’t able to volunteer in a group, but I have been keeping busy by litter picking on my own and carrying our wildlife photography for the facebook page. I have also prepared and produced a local wildlife calendar for 2021 to raise important funds for the charity. Through volunteering with River Holme Connections I feel that my voice is heard and that in a small way I can help in shaping the way things are done and I can see the improvement in our local environment.

RHYS’ STORY – FAMILY VOLUNTEERING FROM A YOUNG PERSON’S PERSPECTIVE

I found out about volunteering from my Granny, we volunteer together.  We plant wildflowers, we plant saplings and we go balsam bashing. I like being outdoors with nature, it makes me feel good. I like helping nature.

GERALD’S STORY

I have been involved as a River Holme Connections Volunteer in building bird boxes, construction of outside amenity areas and tree planting projects. I enjoy meeting the other volunteers, making new friendships and being helpful.

RICHARD’S STORY

I am a Trustee for the charity, I advise on flooding, and green infrastructure and engage directly with schools and churches. At the moment our meetings are taking place virtually rather than face to face. I find the engagement with the community is especially rewarding. Volunteering has enable me to meet new people. and strengthen local engagement and contacts.There seems to be a virtually limitless set of opportunities available. Time is the only impediment and relative prioritisation with other activities.

You find out more about River Holme Connections here

Wasim's Story - Communities in Action

1st June 2020

HOW DID YOU GET INVOLVED IN THE COVID-19 COMMUNITY RESPONSE?

During the second week in April I saw a leaflet and social media about the 20:20 foundation working with Kirklees Council and other partners to deliver food parcels. At that time I had started to work from home so thought I would give them a ring to get involved.

WHAT DO YOU DO WHEN YOU VOLUNTEER?

I help at my local foodbank in Dewsbury collecting and delivering food parcels to people who are struggling financially or because they are isolating. The first few weeks were really busy, with lots of referrals coming though, I now volunteer twice a week, delivering food parcels to people’s doorsteps. Once I have made the delivery I move back to a safe distance so I can have a quick chat with the resident to check they have everything they need. I was a bit anxious to start but I was provided with PPE and a detailed briefing on how to make the deliveries safely. I can speak to Starr at the 20:20 Foundation if I have any questions and I feel well supported. We have a whatsapp group for the Volunteers so we can respond quickly to any emergency requests for food.

WHAT DO YOU LIKE ABOUT VOLUNTEERING?

I find it rewarding to help out, doing my bit to support the community. It has also been a good networking opportunity and I now know more about 20:20 and what they do. When I go back to work in Huddersfield I hope to continue to volunteer at weekends. This situation has provided an opportunity for people who work full time, to stop and reflect on how this pandemic has impacted so many people in the community. It has been quite eye opening to see the volume of people isolated who need help in the community.

You can find out more about the 20:20 Foundation by visiting their facebook page.

If you live in Kirklees and need help, you can contact the Kirklees Council Coronavirus helpline:
0800 4561114 (8am to 6pm weekdays, 10am to 4pm weekends and bank holidays)