Last month, the National Council for Voluntary Organisations (NCVO) celebrated 40 years of Volunteers’ Week, recognizing the amazing contributions volunteers make to communities across the UK.
Like most charities, The Bridge relies on the generosity of others and we salute those who are able to gift their time in support of our cause.
Why is volunteering important? Not only does it allow organisations such as The Bridge to continue to deliver services and to provide help, it improves volunteers’ wellbeing too! It can help you gain new skills, experience and boost your confidence. It is also a positive way for people to give back - many of our beneficiaries also volunteer.
The Bridge for Heroes is a lifeline for many people, and our small team of staff and volunteers work hard to deliver the care and support that is needed, but there is always more we could do! Just giving one hour a week of your time would make a difference.
Now we’ve got you thinking about it, why not give it a go? Do you like to garden, drive, or cook? Working alongside staff and our existing volunteers, you could make a difference to your local Armed Force community. We have a variety of opportunities - from gardening and driving, to cooking and cleaning - based at our Drop-In centre. Whether engaging directly with beneficiaries, keeping the centre clean and tidy, or getting dirty in our award-winning garden, you can do it your way.
Currently available roles include volunteering in our garden, helping prepare and serve meals, hosting beneficiaries, and providing a ‘taxi’ service to bring beneficiaries into the centre.
For those with green fingers and a love for the outdoors, volunteering as a gardener is about more than just plants. It’s an opportunity to get moving, have a chat, and then recover with a cuppa!
Volunteering as a cook is more than just preparing food. A wholesome, home-cooked meal shared with friends is one of the most important things we offer and you could be a part of that too!
Giving someone a lift opens their world and allows them to participate in the community. Getting out of the house can be a huge effort, physically and mentally, so having the right support is key. You’re not just a taxi, you’re a listening ear and encouraging voice.
And it doesn’t stop there. We love being able to offer a full programme of activities so if you have a hobby or interest that you could share, instruct or teach, we would invite you to reach out.
Contact Gregg, our Volunteer Lead, for more information or an informal chat about volunteering opportunities at The Bridge for Heroes.
