Andy first started volunteering with Dimensions in 2019, helping out at a weekly Social Club in Horsham run by Out There West Sussex (part of Outreach 3Way, Dimensions Group).
Since the pandemic, the Social Club has been on hold, but this has not deterred Andy from finding ways to continue helping out! Andy is a popular volunteer with the people supported, always happy to join in and help where required
Over the past 7 months, Andy has been volunteering virtually at a weekly online music club, part of the Dimensions Staying in Touch project, which helps the people we support to meet others with shared interests. His musical talents were also snapped up for the Worcestershire and Shropshire virtual valentine’s disco in February, which brought joy to everyone and greatly helped to lift people’s spirits!
Andy has also been able to keep in touch with some of the people who usually attend the Horsham Social Club, by volunteering at Windsor House in Crawley, adapting activities as necessary to comply with Government guidance. This has included helping one individual in particular, Patrick, to play his guitar and learn some songs.
Ian, Out There Sports and Leisure Development Officer says:
“Andy really enjoys engaging with the people we support and this opportunity has allowed him to gain more experience as a volunteer. For the people we support, Andy has given them someone different to talk to and someone to help them keep active which is vitally important for everyone during this time.”
Volunteer Andy says:
“I love the variety of what I am involved in, which ranges from an online music club and one-to-one ukulele/guitar/singing sessions, to football training and helping the residents of a local house. I do miss the weekly Social Club that I first became involved in and helped to run, but which stopped due to social restrictions; it is exciting to think that this could restart again soon though, and I am really looking forward to seeing everyone again!
“I find it incredibly rewarding to see the enjoyment that these activities bring to those involved, which makes me feel that I have achieved something very worthwhile and made a difference. And without even realising it (until I wrote this!), I have also gained new skills and confidence.
“Through volunteering I have met some wonderful people who are passionate and dedicated to what they do, and who I am glad to volunteer alongside.”
Inspired?
If you would like to find out more about volunteering with Dimensions, take a look at our volunteering page or contact us on volunteering@dimensions-uk.org, 0300 303 9162 (Monday – Friday 9am – 5pm)