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This week, is Student Volunteering Week a national event, led by the Student Volunteering Network, that takes place across the UK.
Universities and schools across the country step up to take part in the week, organising opportunities or events to encourage their students to volunteer and help their local communities.
At Advocacy Matters we are celebrating and sharing our Volunteers who are students- experiences:
Riya is a Social Worker student, has been a young Carer for her grandparents and loves films, fashion and fiction.
What does volunteering at AM mean to you and what are you doing?
An opportunity to gain more experience and support the goals of the charities. Understand peoples’ life experiences and perspective. Help people to gain their outcomes and for me, an opportunity to build my confidence- working and engaging with my community.
My role is to advocate for people in relation to issues they may need support to resolve. Ensuring their voices are heard and not ignored i.e. Helping a partner to get accessible adaptions pertinent to their disabilities.
Does helping out give you satisfaction?
Yes it feels rewarding – especially when I support older people – makes me reflect on as if I am helping my own grandparents, again.
When did you decide to volunteer?
I started volunteering for other organisations when I was 17, working at a womens’ refuge- and came to AM in the 2nd year of my Social Work degree.
What skills have you brought to AM organisation?
As a current student of Social Work I have an understanding of current practice to share. I have a warm demeanor and am empathetic. As well as a professional approach to challenging situations.
How have you found working in Advocacy Matters?
Really good- the staff is focused on looking out for each other and working as a team. They are passionate about about their work and who they support. It’s not just a job, it’s a vocation- people really care about helping others
Would you encourage other people you know to volunteer?
Definitely – it’s good to have the experience, help you not be ignorant and changes mindset.
Gives you an understanding ofvariation of people in this city and the issues they have to deal with. It’s good to make an effort for others- it makes me feel better.
What are the highs and lows?
Lows
Seeing people in a vulnerable position, struggling with issues.
The loneliness and isolation people are experiencing.
Highs
Access to people
Achieving a person you have helped, outcome with them.
Professional knowledge and cultural understanding.
Humour and wisdom shared.
I would encourage all students to volunteer to get access to different roles-industry knowledge and get more hands on awareness of what’s going on in the world – come out of your comfort bubble. Build your confidence – embrace yourself- free yourself to communicate – push yourself it’s worth it!
Curious? To find out about current roles and training contact 0121 321 2377
