Volunteer Stories – Sharlene’s Story

Before the Covid-19 and lockdown took its hold on communities Sharlene worked in the kitchen at a local garden centre. As soon as she was told they were shutting she immediately knew she wanted to do something to help others.

“This whole situation made me wake up because I knew people like my Nan would need support.”

Shortly after registering to volunteer on VAL’s website, she received volunteering opportunities to work with the Royal Air Force Association. Volunteering for the RAF Association is a great way of developing your skills and meeting new people, at the same time as supporting members of the RAF community in your local area who need your help.

The RAFA provided professional guidance and training and Sharlene now makes phone calls to residents in Scotland three times a week.

“It’s been really good. I never thought about doing anything like this before. It’s opened my eyes to other people’s situations.

One of the women which I speak to lives with her husband who has Dementia and another, who I have formed a close bond with, is 97, I find her stories so interesting. I could talk to her for hours!”

While Sharlene’s partner continued to work throughout lockdown, volunteering has given her a feeling of purpose and genuine enjoyment.

Sharlene says that she would like to continue to volunteer when she is working again and will use the training, certification and experience which she has gained while volunteering with The Royal Air Force Association.