David found his passion for gardening and his new-found ability to adapt helped him to achieve something special alongside our other volunteers.
“I am 46. I had been unemployed for a long period prior to volunteering with The Wallich – it was a work break that I had taken by choice as I rebuilt my mental and physical health after a serious cancer scare.
It had got to the point where my confidence was low, I think this was primarily down to lack of routine and missing the daily interactions that happen in the workplace.”
“I had a lifelong interest in helping the most disadvantaged in society and a recently developed passion for gardening. I saw an advert to volunteer in a gardening project and it seemed perfect.
Everything I have done lies far outside the expertise I had previously (environmental regulation and consultancy) but if I have an interest in something I adapt and find a way to make a success of it quickly.
I think the very steep learning curve I’ve been on has suited me perfectly.”
“ The space where the project was to happen was ideal, an overgrown thicket of brambles and nettles but with loads of potential.
From the moment I arrived, I felt welcome and valued. We had some wonderful volunteers who put in a tremendous amount of work and from day one it felt like we were achieving something special. I was given lots of responsibility to manage the project and I am really happy with what we achieved.
I also volunteered with the Rough Sleepers Intervention Team – my responsibilities were taking part in the ‘Breakfast Run’, where we take food and drink to people experiencing street homelessness.
I also made sure provisions were topped up and assisted with maintenance and cleaning of the ‘emergency beds’ and ‘chalets’ at The Wallich’s Dinas Fechan hostel.”
“It sounds like a big statement, but I have loved it all. It was an ideal reintroduction to the workplace for me.
Even just in one and then two days a week, it gave me routine, structure and purpose, which was exactly what I needed.
The best part has been the many interactions with all the people within The Wallich – staff and service users. Although I do need lots of down time occasionally, I really thrive being around people. I would recommend volunteering at The Wallich.”
“The volunteering proved to be a great success. Although it hadn’t been my intention, it quickly became clear that if the chance arose to be employed by The Wallich, it would be a good opportunity for me to take.
It actually all happened rather quickly – I have found myself working full-time.”
Take a look at our Volunteers page and check out our Jobs page for specific volunteer vacancies.