What does it mean to give your time — not for money, but for meaning?
In Buckinghamshire, more than 175,000 people volunteer every year. That’s nearly a third of the county’s adult population. They show up in hospitals, schools, food banks, and green spaces. They mentor, they clean, they care, they listen. Often, they do it quietly. But their stories matter.
The High Sheriff’s Volunteer Project is a storytelling and photography collaboration between The High Sheriff of Buckinghamshire and Christopher James Hall, founder of The Narrator’s Lens CIC. This project celebrates the people who make a difference every day — volunteers.
Through portraits and real-life stories, we’re exploring the lives, motivations, and impact of volunteers across the county. From retirees and students to professionals and parents, each person has a reason to give — and each story shows the strength of community in action.
Why This Matters
Volunteering doesn’t just help others — it strengthens communities and supports mental well-being. It brings people together, builds confidence, and creates purpose.
But the value of volunteering is often overlooked. And among younger adults, fewer people are stepping forward.
This project will:
- Celebrate the stories of volunteers, across all backgrounds and walks of life.
- Encourage others to take part, especially those new to volunteering.
- Showcase untold stories, including those from underrepresented groups.
- Inspire community pride, highlighting that anyone can make a difference.
Because behind every strong community are people who care — and act.
What We’re Doing
In partnership with local charities and organisations, we’re meeting volunteers across Buckinghamshire. We ask about what got them started, what keeps them going, and what it means to them.
Then we document it.
Each story is captured through photographs and short interviews — creating a powerful record of volunteering in everyday life.
We’ll share these stories through:
- Public exhibitions in libraries, community centres, and shared spaces.
- A professionally produced legacy book, shared with schools, groups, and community hubs.
- Events and forums where stories are shared, voices are heard, and new connections are made.
This is storytelling with purpose — about real people and the communities they serve.
What We Hope To Achieve
By the end of the project, we hope to:
- Reach people across Buckinghamshire through exhibitions and events.
- Encourage more individuals to explore volunteering in their own communities.
- Build greater understanding of what volunteering really means — and why it matters.
- Give a platform to volunteers whose stories are rarely heard.
This project isn’t about the numbers. It’s about connection, recognition, and inspiration — showing that even small acts of giving can have a powerful impact.
The High Sheriff’s Volunteer Project
A partnership between the High Sheriff of Buckinghamshire and Christopher James Hall, founder of The Narrator’s Lens CIC.
Photography that connects. Stories that inspire.
