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

I came down to Poole from Cumbria 14 years ago. I live with my lovely dog and my cat! I’ve also got a brother who lives locally and a sister in London.

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

I like to go to the gym and I love to swim – so it’s great that my volunteering lets me do what I love! I also like to walk Josie my dog.

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

I help Andrew who lives in one of Diverse Abilities Plus’ Supported Living bungalows. I take Andrew swimming every week which is great as he’s great fun and I love swimming anyway!

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

Every week

What made you decide to Volunteer for DAP?

Due to a long term medical condition I am restricted to what I can do work-wise but volunteering keeps me busy and gets me out of the house more.

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

I also work at the Wallisdown Heights Adult Day Centre which is where I first met Andrew. I have also fostered homeless dogs which is how I got Josie!

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

It has boosted my confidence and helped me to meet new people which always makes you feel good. I don’t really know what I expected but am sure it’s better than anything  I could have imagined. 

What do you enjoy about volunteering for DAP?

Andrew is always grinning and to be honest, just seeing him smiling makes my day. I don’t want people to feel sorry for him. He’s got a good life and he’s happy. Besides, I feel he has done more for me than I have done for him and he doesn’t even realize it. 

Would you recommend other people get involved? Why?

Yes I do. I think everyone should try and do something for someone else sometime in their life. It’s not like it’s a one-way street – you get so much back. Besides, I get to meet new people and it makes me feel good.  Even if you do one thing once, it’s better than nothing.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

I just want to say thank you to Andrew – he makes my life better.