Volunteering gives me a chance to work with carers who are maybe struggling and help them rediscover their inner strength and create some time for themselves. SCC is a very positive organisation, where everyone pulls together, and I enjoy being a part of that.

I have been volunteering for a quite a long time with various organisations and have found it very rewarding, as I feel I am giving something back to the community. Volunteering for Swindon Carers has been a very enjoyable and moving experience. Working with children of various ages has proved valuable and rewarding, especially knowing what roles they have as young carers. In spite of their caring roles I have always found the children to be happy, although sometimes shy and reserved to start with they soon seem to come out of their shells, which is so lovely to see. I find it very moving when they look out and help one another.

I started volunteering for Swindon Carers as a newly retired person, the reason was to scale down my working week while keeping the social and technically challenging aspects of my previous role going. Volunteering for Swindon Carers allows me to do this one or two days a week, more if i like, and it still leaves me free to travel and follow my other interests without being restricted by employment rules. The team at Swindon Carers are by definition friendly and considerate people, they work tirelessly to support carers of any age within our community and i would thoroughly recommend Swindon Carers as an opportunity to volunteer.

I have been volunteering with Young Carers for just over a year. My husband also volunteers, and it was through him I became aware of the need for volunteers to help with the activities and craft sessions. It has been a very enjoyable and rewarding experience, seeing the pleasure the children get from having the opportunity to express themselves through Arts and Craft, it is very heart-warming to see the pride they take making their creations, often to take home and give to other family members.

It was nice to talk to someone who understands, and it has made me tearful as it isn’t often that people listen.

Thank you. I didn’t know what to expect, I had no idea about the services available. Thank you for your time & fantastic support. It is nice to know that there is someone there for me.

It was lovely to talk to you. You have been so helpful and given me the first steps to getting my life back.

Support has been very good; I feel able to cope knowing I can always ring up for advice or support anytime.

Thank you. You have got every area covered and that makes my life so much easier. I feel better already. Much appreciated.

Thank you for listening; it’s so nice to talk to someone who doesn’t judge.

Being a part of the young carers and attending groups and activities has had a positive impact on my life and others around me because it provides and outlet and gives me a break from my caring role.

The staff are all helpful and supported and do their utmost to ensure the wellbeing of all young carers!

Thank you all so much, this is a real worry off my shoulders.

It’s so good to be able to talk to someone who really ‘gets it’ thank you so much.

Thank you. Without you we would be lost.