To celebrate national Volunteers Week 2017, one of our wonderful helpline volunteers tells us why they volunteer their time and what it means to them.
“An open ear and 20 minutes of someone’s undivided attention can be the difference between keeping your head above water and really exploring/ challenging your own self worth.
I volunteer for the LGBT switchboard in Brighton because it gives me such a sense of pride & unity to be able to connect with people from many walks of life.
Through the volunteering, I’ve learnt a lot about humanity, humility and the overwhelming strength of the LGBT community.
I’m excited about what the future holds for the Switchboard and it’s great to be a part of the journey and evolution of an amazing organisation which dedicates itself to supporting, listening to and amplifying the voice of the LGBT community.
Although I’m not an expert in all aspects of LGBT topics, the insight, experience and collaborative knowledge that the volunteers & service users share is a force to be reckoned with in the face of adversity.
The first time you take a call on the helpline can be nerve wracking, but the bravery of each and every person who reaches out to the Switchboard is remarkable and inspiring to say the least.
2 hours of the week well spent!”
We could not do what we do without our volunteers if you are interested in becoming a volunteer then please do get in touch.