Volunteer stories – Howard

In celebration of Volunteers Day, we’ve invited some of our dedicated volunteers to share their personal experiences and insights about volunteering.

We hope that by hearing from them, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the impact volunteering has, not just on the community, but on the volunteers themselves.

---

Howard Jones – Volunteer Driver at VASL

I chose to volunteer with this organisation because my parents used a similar service in Suffolk. With our family spread across the UK and other countries, we found the service invaluable. It allowed my parents to maintain their independence without constantly relying on family and friends.

Volunteering has given me the opportunity to give back to the community, ensuring it’s not all ‘take’. I’ve met people from all backgrounds, many of whom have had fascinating careers. This experience has deepened my understanding of the challenges faced by elderly and disabled individuals.

I generally volunteer one day per week, which is easy to manage and brings me great joy. The feedback from our passengers is always positive and complimentary, providing personal satisfaction. Supporting the community is important, as one day we might need the service ourselves.

To anyone considering volunteering for the first time, I say don’t hesitate. Volunteer as much time as you can afford. Helping others is incredibly satisfying, and you’ll receive great support from the office team, like Lisa and Jo, as well as from other drivers.