Meet our volunteers

So you know what opportunities are available, but what is it really like to be a volunteer for The Stroke Association? 

Some of our existing volunteers give you the inside scoop:

Malcolm Williamson - Communication Support Volunteer (Grimsby)

'I have been a volunteer for over 10 years. My father had suffered a stroke some years earlier so I felt that my experience of dealing with the effects of his stroke would come in useful as a volunteer. I also believed that some of the skills I had developed during my teaching career could very easily be transferred to a volunteering environment.

Initially I was recruited as a volunteer driver which I thoroughly enjoyed. On the drive to and from the group I had the opportunity to talk to my passengers and really get to know them and learn things about their lives, their families and their experiences of stroke.

I eventually also became a Communication Support Volunteer. In this role I am responsible for working with service users who have a communication difficulty after their stroke.  The main aim is to help service users develop their communication skills and build their confidence.  It is an incredibly rewarding role. 

It’s amazing the different people I have met while volunteering. It has really broadened my outlook on life. If I have in some small way been able to build someone’s confidence, reduce someone’s social isolation or provide a carer with a small period or respite then it has definitely been worth it. I would encourage anyone to get involved.’

Gareth Rickards - Volunteer Training Administrator (Salford)

'I am a volunteer for The Stroke Association Training team based in Salford and I enjoy it very much. I prepare manuals that are used to support the training that is delivered by Jane Lewis (Training Officer). I also now do some additional work for the North West Regional Office.

Everyone in the office is so kind and supportive and gives me lots of help and encouragement. I can honestly say that The Stroke Association has not only given me new hope, but also working skills.'

Adrian Romano - Administration Volunteer (Bury St Edmunds)

'I joined The Stroke Association as an Administration Volunteer after responding to a request on the do-it.org website. I undertake a variety of duties to assist the East of England Regional Office depending on what is required at the time.

Some of the tasks have included taking telephone calls during busy times; sourcing photographers for the Luton 10K run and updating regional databases.

The role has been a good opportunity for me to learn new skills such as using Microsoft Excel and email. My ultimate aim is to work in a paid administrative role and my experience in the voluntary sector has helped me get interviews which I would not have been offered two or three years ago.'