Volunteers are needed now more than ever and there are many ways to share your skills to support your community. Jason, for instance, chose to give back by volunteering at Fitzalan Howard Day Service, Guild Care’s centre for adults with learning disabilities in Worthing.

In the past, Jason had been a client at Fitzalan before it became part of the Guild Care charity.  He was keen to return to help others benefit from their services and support. “I wanted to find something suitable for me and my dad thought this would be a great fit. I’d been a client before and knew someone here, but this time I wanted to help other people rather than being helped.”

At Fitzalan Day Service, volunteers like Jason provide valuable support for members, working alongside the professional care team. From helping with music and art activities to completing jigsaws or playing table tennis, volunteers can get involved in a wide range of activities.

Although Jason is new to the team at Fitzalan, he’s quickly settled in and is loves helping people work towards their goals. “For me, it’s having a right giggle and meeting the staff and the members. They’re not colleagues, they’re more like family.”

He encourages others to volunteer, highlighting the sense of purpose while having fun. “If you can help someone make a cup of tea, you can volunteer. It’s about being by the side of someone, not doing it for them as that takes away from their projects. You just need to be by their side and support, so it’s a team effort.”

If you’d like to try volunteering, Guild Care’s Volunteer Team will help you find a role that fits your skills, interests, and time. Whether it’s working in one of their 16 charity shops, helping at a fundraising event, or offering tea and company for people living with dementia, there’s a way to get involved.

Find out more by contacting Zoe Lockwood at Guild Care on 01903 600602, email [email protected] or simply complete the online form.