This year Coastline has seen an increase in the number of young volunteers getting involved in formal volunteer opportunities – with an increase from one young volunteer in 2023 to five in 2024!
Our young volunteers have been based across our Miners Court and Community Investment teams, helping with tasks such as the delivery of activities and community events.
Customers and colleagues have commented on the positive impact their involvement has had:
‘It’s great to have all generations together, we all learn from each other.’
‘They’ve been so helpful, last week I wasn’t feeling too great, they picked that up straight away and checked on me throughout the day. They do a brilliant job.’
‘We have a right laugh together!’
‘They get stuck in with helping with making refreshments and getting involved in activities. The customers really enjoy their company.’
‘Ben is a helping hand in the laundry, taking the pressure off staff and enabling them to concentrate on care tasks. He is always positive, eager to learn and a great asset to the team.’
The experience has also been impactful to the young people getting involved, with them commenting:
‘It’s helped me to achieve my Duke of Edinburgh Award!’
‘I’ve enjoyed meeting new people. One of the customers I visit when I drop back their laundry seems lonely and always looks happier when he sees me and I stay to have a chat. It makes me feel good.’
‘Not only has it taught me many valuable things for my future but it’s also been an amazing working environment. I’ve been overjoyed to help out the community and I look forward to volunteering with them again soon.’
If you know someone who is 14+ years old who would be interested in volunteering, then please contact the Community Investment Team to see how they could get involved.
