Oh wow… where do I even start? I’ve had quite a turbulent life. There’ve been a lot of ups and downs, and I’ve walked through some pretty dark times. But I’ve come out the other side, and that gave me a strong feeling that I needed to give back. I wanted to share some hope, some love, and offer encouragement to those who feel like they’ve got nothing left. Because I’ve been there. I know how that feels.
That’s what brought me to Restore Hope in 2022. I’d already done a bit of volunteering before – I ran an Al-Anon group in Cheshire for families and friends of alcoholics – but I wanted to do something more. Something hands-on. Something that helped people in everyday life.
I started off small – helping pack veg boxes for families. It felt good, knowing something so simple could make someone’s week that bit easier. From there, I started helping out with the animals on the estate – pigs, sheep, ponies, chickens – and I’d take my daughters with me. It became a little family tradition. I then got involved in the café, and now every Wednesday, I’m down there cooking lunch for the maintenance team – a brilliant group of men who keep the place running. I make food for twelve to fifteen people, and they’re so grateful, which just makes it even more worthwhile.
And that’s what volunteering does – it gives back to you as much as you give to others.
Volunteering has completely changed my life. It’s given me purpose, structure, and a sense of belonging that I didn’t even realise I was missing. Emotionally, I’ve grown so much. I feel more confident, more compassionate, and more capable. It’s pulled me out of a place where I was struggling with my health and unsure of what came next, and given me something to look forward to each week. It lifts my spirits. It helps my mental health. It’s not just about keeping busy – it’s about feeling useful and valued.
Socially, it’s opened up a new world. I’ve met some truly genuine people – kind-hearted, giving, humble people. I’ve let go of old friendships that weren’t healthy or one-sided and built new ones that are meaningful. I walk away from every day at Restore Hope feeling like I’ve connected, like I’ve done something real.
Practically, it’s helped me make use of skills I already had – like cooking – and reminded me of what I enjoy. I worked in the hotel industry for over ten years, but had to give it up due to health reasons. Volunteering has brought back that love for hospitality, but in a way that’s flexible, pressure-free, and full of heart. I still get to cook, organise, and be around people – but it’s on my terms, and it genuinely makes a difference.
The staff at Restore Hope have been incredible. They’ve supported me, encouraged me, and helped me to believe that I’ve still got something special to offer. And outside of that, my mum and my children are my biggest cheerleaders. They’ve seen how much happier I am and they push me to keep going.
I think one of the biggest things I’ve gained is a renewed sense of identity. I’m not just someone who’s been through tough times. I’m someone who can help others through theirs. That’s powerful. Volunteering helps you turn your pain into purpose, your struggles into strength.
And it’s not just about helping others – though that’s a big part of it – it’s about being part of something bigger than yourself. It’s about community, compassion, and contribution. It’s about knowing that when someone smiles after a meal you’ve cooked, or thanks you for being there, you’ve made a difference – even if just for a moment.
If someone asked me, “Is volunteering worth it?” I’d say this: it’s life-changing. It’s not just about what you give – it’s about what you get. You get connection, joy, growth, purpose, healing. You get reminded that no matter your past, you’ve still got something valuable to give.
And that, to me, is priceless.
