In the first of a series of blog posts to celebrate Volunteers Week 2019, we’re interviewing some of our longest-serving volunteers across our many projects. In each interview, they talk about their role, what it involves and what they gain from it.
First, Peter Arnold, one of our volunteer Citizen Advocates, discusses the ins and outs of his role, helping to make an adult with a learning disability’s voice heard.
How long have you been volunteering with Advonet for?
I have been volunteering with Advonet for eight years.
Why did you first decide to become a volunteer?
To help others and get a different perspective.
What does your role involve?
My role involves supporting my advocacy partner and ensuring that their needs and wants are being heard.
What do you feel you get out of volunteering?
I get a challenge, a sense of community and a different experience to my day job. I feel like I am helping!
What have the people you support achieved since you started volunteering with Advonet?
I have achieved loads! Changes in care, getting through health issues, plenty of happy times and taking on tasks and demands from my advocacy partner.
What would you say to anyone considering becoming a volunteer?
It is mega-rewarding and ace to have an impact, but it’s not easy and it’s a commitment.
If you would like to become a Citizen Advocate like Peter, please visit our Volunteering page for more information, including our Volunteering application form and a video about the benefits of becoming a volunteer with Advonet.
