Can you tell us a bit about yourself and your past experience?

My name’s Diane Kelly. I’m from Donnegal in Ireland and I’ve been in the UK since September 2009 and I live in Bournemouth.

What are your hobbies/interests? Is there anything unusual you like to do in your spare time?!

I like to go to the gym – I like Zumba, circuits and aqua-aerobics (if I have any energy left at the end of the day!). I also like to sing and I go to ‘Funky Choir’ in Bournemouth every week which is great fun and really builds your confidence.

What sort of volunteering do you do/ have you done for Diverse Abilities Plus?  What tasks does that involve/skills does that use?

I’ve been an assistant at Barnabas Day Activity Centre for 3 months. I help the adults with doing activities and developing skills and basically having fun!  Sometimes we play games, go bowling or just go out for a walk. It helps me develop my communication and Personal Care skills.

Do you do regular volunteering or on an ad hoc basis?

I help at Barnabas on a full-time basis and have done for 3 months.

What made you decide to Volunteer for DAP?

I liked the idea that there was a big range of activities to get involved in and that it was busy and diverse with days out and a good programme of events.

Had you had any previous experience in Volunteering? If so, where?

St John’s ambulance

What have you gained/learnt from your Volunteering experience? Is it what you expected?

It’s also been invaluable work experience which has enabled me to update my skills and to see different ways of doing things.

What do you enjoy about volunteering for DAP?

It’s just such a positive place to be and I like meeting new people and feeling part of a team. I love seeing that I am actually making a difference and enabling the people we support to do new things.

Would you recommend other people get involved? Why?

Of course! Apart from meeting new people and helping others, it gives you a chance to learn new skills without feeling any pressure. It also makes you do things you wouldn’t necessarily do if you weren’t volunteering.