6th June 2024

Name: Themis

Job role: Volunteering in various roles within Hestia for over 3 years

I used to be a service user at a previous mental health service and Hestia got in contact with me when they took over the contract. During lockdown they had online groups, I got involved with different activities like Spanish. I was then encouraged by a staff member to get involved with the Together Network. I was asked about what I enjoyed, and I said that I loved walking, so I started volunteering with the walking group and the outing group every second week of the month. I’ve now been part of that group for three years. 

“Hestia have always encouraged me to do volunteering work, they’ve believed in me and never judged me.”

I’ve met so many lovely people at Hestia, the team are all so supportive. If I need anything or want to talk to anyone, they’ll help me. I’ve made so many friends and learned new skills - it’s been amazing. I really feel like I’m giving back to society and that’s what I wanted to do, I didn’t just want to keep staying at home all the time. There have been periods of my life where I’ve been home for years, feeling isolated, depressed, and suicidal. I have a rare condition that affects my coordination, speech, and balance. That gets me down quite a bit, but I still don’t let it define me.

Hestia has always encouraged me to do volunteering work, they’ve believed in me and never judged me. They’ll open their doors to anybody and that really means a lot to me, to feel and know that you are wanted and worth it. I used to say to them, “I’m not good at anything” and they used to say to me, “We’ve all got different journeys, and we all have strengths in different things, you’ll one day find something that’s good for you.” They’ve always given me a lot of encouragement.

For those who are looking to volunteer, keep going, don’t give up hope – there’s always a light at the end of the tunnel. Hestia is supportive and pays attention to your needs, they’re always there if you need them. They encourage you to better yourself, help you learn new skills, help you get an education and achieve your goals. Whatever you’re striving for, they can help. Just sign up and you’ll see results later. In the beginning you might be scared like I was or fearful but in time you’ll find your confidence. You’ll meet the team and go on fun days out. The door is always open for anybody to walk in, anybody who needs help. It’s always open for you, it doesn’t matter where you are, how low you are or what help you need.

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Interested in volunteering with us?

https://www.hestia.org/volunteer-today