Barry who volunteered at Portsmouth Vaccination Centre
What inspired you to volunteer?
I was inspired to volunteer as I had taken early retirement in November 2019 and when Covid took hold the following year I wanted to use my time in assisting the drive for mass vaccination.
What volunteering do you do and who with?
I spent 16 months volunteering at the vaccination centre at St James Hospital, Portsmouth from when it opened in Feb 21. In June 22 I applied to QA hospital to continue a volunteer role and started working in the charity shop at the hospital where I am currently working.
When did you get involved with this organisation?
I enrolled with Hive in January 2021.
What attracted you to this role & organisation?
As I stated at 2, I was attracted by the call out for vaccination volunteers and, as I had not long retired, thought it was a useful way to spend my spare time.
What are your activities and what do they involve?
At the vaccination centre my role as a Marshall involved either directing members of the public within the building or outside in the car parking areas and entrance. My current role at the charity shop in QA involves opening the shop and preparing till and card reader for the morning trade, assisted by another volunteer until the paid shop manager starts her day at 11:30.
What motivates you to stay involved?
My motivation to stay in this role is the appreciation I receive for offering up my time, which is even more rewarding when a customer recognises this.
What have you personally gained from volunteering?
I have gained personal satisfaction of using my spare time for the good of others from volunteering and also met some very friendly, like-minded people.
Do you have a message to share / anything else you’d like to say?
My message to anyone considering volunteering is just go for it, it can be very rewarding and, in most roles, you can commit to as little or as much time as you can spare.
I would just add that whilst it can be rewarding it isn’t for everyone so if it’s not for you don’t worry, we are all different!
Feeling inspired to volunteer? Click the link below to get started!