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Volunteers' Week takes place every year on 1-7 June and recognises the contribution millions of people make across the UK through volunteering. We spoke to our volunteers who help out at our Women's Group, drop-in centres and office about what volunteering means to them.


Brian 

Why do you volunteer?

I volunteer with Glass Door because I believe that all people have the right and need to have their own place to call home. Glass Door believe not only in sheltering and feeding vulnerable people but also working closely with them to find them permanent accommodation and help with related problems.

How long have you volunteered with Glass Door?

I have been a volunteer for fifteen months now, welcoming people to Glass Door and linking them up to caseworkers who can help.

What do you like the most about volunteering?

The most satisfaction comes from clients who, when leaving, say what a great help the service has been to them and that things now look more promising.


Joanna

What's your favourite place to visit in London?

We are lucky to have so many beautiful green spaces in London; in South West London, Richmond Park is wonderful.

What made you want to become a volunteer?

It’s over 50 years since I first became a volunteer – and I can’t remember all the reasons that made me start! I find volunteering is a good way to ‘steward’ my time and any skills I have.

What does home mean to you?

Home is the place I go out from, and the place I know I can come back to.

Do you have a favourite memory of your volunteering?

It’s always a special pleasure when I can find a point of connection with one of our guests. Almost everyone seems to enjoy talking about their local food, and because I used to work in Africa I’ve surprised some guests by knowing details of regional African dishes. I love the enthusiastic conversations that then arise.


Deborah

How long have you been volunteering with Glass Door? Have you done more than 1 type of volunteering?

I've been volunteering with Glass Door at CMC for about a year having first got involved via the church circuit provision of accommodation and meals during the winter. I also volunteer in a primary school helping children with literacy, numeracy, building confidence etc.

What made you want to become a volunteer? 

Colleagues at my previous job recommended it; as soon as I started I could see the benefits both for recipients and my own work - it was a break from the corporate role and a chance to appreciate a different view.

Do you have a favourite memory of your volunteering?

Nothing specific but it feels special when guests smile and look pleased to see me! I know life for many people can feel very lonely at times so building any form of regular, friendly human connection for all of us is so important. 

What's your favourite place to visit in London?

It's hard to choose one - Kew Gardens is a favourite, anywhere with a view of the Thames and trees, but I also love the galleries and museums.

What does home mean to you?

Physically our apartment with my own front door key and possessions inside, but actually anywhere my family is.


Charlie

Do you have a favourite memory of your volunteering?

Christmas and New Year's Day 2020 are my most memorable dates with Glass Door. Due to implications around covid I would have spent those days alone myself so I hugely appreciated the contact with hostel guests and the warmth of the dinner service.

What's your favourite place to visit in London?

A very special place that's close to my heart is Sands End's Imperial Park where the most magical boat which is made entirely from geometric mirrors is moored on the Thames, with a floating peace garden, lit with fairy lights and enchanting red roses.

What does home mean to you?

Having moved 16 times in 3 cities, home means to me - my childhood teddy bear, my favourite brand of lip balm, laughing on the phone with my cousin, the trees with hanging "xmas baubles", the full moon and Orion's belt, west country accents, strong cheese, the smell of horses, Bridget Jones's diary, old skool garage songs, Weetabix cereal and pet shop gold fish.


Joanna

How long have you been volunteering with Glass Door? Have you done more than 1 type of volunteering?

I have volunteered with Glass Door since 2017, firstly as a host at one of the night shelters (St Augustine’s/HTB Queensgate) and since 2019 at CMC helping at the morning drop-in once a week.

What made you want to become a volunteer?

Homelessness has always been a big concern for me. In the past I have helped by cooking food but I really wanted to be more engaged with those affected by homelessness so I was delighted when I heard about the work which Glass Door was undertaking; it is wonderful to be part of the support which is provided to those who are in a really difficult situation - even if that be by no more than providing a friendly welcome.

Do you have a favourite memory of your volunteering?

During lockdown a very diverse range of people came to the drop-in for help; I particularly enjoyed welcoming people at that very difficult time.


Meet John, our award-winning volunteer!

Find out more about volunteering at Glass Door