“Although I work full time, I began my volunteering journey 30 years ago and fortunately my employers have given me the time off to enable me to achieve this.  In 2016 I started working with Suffolk Family Carers for their Young Carer Clubs, having made enquiries the year before, as I wanted to be involved once again with activities for children, having successfully volunteered at Ipswich Hospital and EACH.

“I initially started with the Suffolk Young Carers – Ipswich Juniors club, but moved almost 5 years ago to work with Sue at her Woodstowe Club.  I feel we have gone from strength to strength, we have 2 groups in 1 evening now, the U9s and 9-12s, and meet up once a month during term time.  We are very lucky to have excellent facilities at Tower Hall which offers our group a safe and secure place for them to enjoy their club.

“Working with children has always been a privilege for me, their enjoyment is yours and some of our group blossom in the time dedicated especially to them.  The annual Hallowtrees event run by the Rotary Club brings together the young community, with a full day of dedicated activities for our young carers and is fun but absolutely exhausting!

“Suffolk Family Carers offers a welcoming and inclusive environment for volunteers, and Sue has encouraged me to spread my wings beyond the kitchen, I am a feeder and enjoy helping with the kids’ snacks.  Volunteers also have a dedicated Development Manager and courses to ensure that we are up to date with current legislation and can manage our commitments comfortably.  I hope there are a few more miles in me yet and look forward to the next Club night next month.”