Volunteer Experience & Motivation
This quick survey is part of a project by The Narrator’s Lens CIC and the High Sheriff of Buckinghamshire, exploring what motivates volunteers and what support they need.
It only takes a few minutes – your insight could help shape a better experience for others
Barriers to Volunteering
This quick survey is part of a project by The Narrator’s Lens CIC and the High Sheriff of Buckinghamshire, exploring what holds people back from volunteering and what might help them get started.
It only takes a few minutes – and your answers could shape better opportunities for others.
Perceptions of Volunteering
This short questionnaire explores how people view volunteering – what it means, who does it, and why.
It’s part of a project by The Narrator’s Lens CIC in partnership with the High Sheriff of Buckinghamshire.
You don’t need to be a volunteer to take part – just share your thoughts.
It only takes a few minutes and helps shape future campaigns and community projects.
New Volunteer Project Announced by High Sheriff
Photographer Christopher James Hall launches The Volunteer Project with the High Sheriff of Buckinghamshire, Pippa Kirkbride—capturing the untold stories of volunteers across the county through portraits and personal testimony.
Finding Purpose Through Giving Back
Volunteering has completely changed my life. I started at Restore Hope in 2022, wanting to give something back after going through a lot myself, and I’ve never looked back. From packing veg boxes to cooking lunch for the maintenance team, every role has given me purpose, confidence, and connection. It’s not just about helping others – it’s helped me grow emotionally, build meaningful relationships, and rediscover what truly matters. I’ve found joy, healing, and a community that makes me feel valued. For me, volunteering isn’t a duty – it’s a privilege, and I’d encourage anyone to give it a go.
It’s About Giving Back
I never set out to be a volunteer—it just grew from small things like sewing on a button to helping run the Chesham Community Fridge with my husband, Dai. Now I coordinate volunteers, handle admin, support sewing and repair groups, and help with Fairtrade events. For me, it’s about showing up, using what I know, and making a quiet difference.
If Something Needs Doing, I’ll Have a Go
It started with a van and some spare time—now Dai’s the go-to guy in Chesham, lifting crates, fixing toasters, and supporting his community through projects like the Community Fridge and Repair Café, all driven by a simple belief: if you can help, you should.
Volunteering? Yeah, It’s Actually Pretty Great
I never set out to be a volunteer – it just started with small things like helping at Silver Sundays, serving tea or doing some planting. A couple of years ago, I began getting more involved, especially at Restore Hope – a place that’s felt like a second home since childhood. With my family already part of it, getting involved felt natural. Now, I help out at events, pack veg boxes for local families, and support wherever I’m needed. Volunteering has helped me grow in confidence and taught me patience, teamwork, and the impact of simple kindness. It’s not just about what you give – it’s about what you gain too.
The High Sheriff’s Volunteer Project
A storytelling and photography project celebrating Buckinghamshire’s volunteers. Created by The Narrator’s Lens CIC in partnership with the High Sheriff of Buckinghamshire to share real stories and inspire community action.