Testimonials

I didn’t intend to do anything when I retired but a friend of mine worked for another area as a driver and he suggested I might enjoy it. Eastwood Volunteer Bureau is more local to me so I applied.

I have been involved with the Eastwood Volunteer Bureau & Foodbank since its inception, and delighted that Broxtowe Borough Council has been able to offer them grant aid on occasions. Over the years hundreds of people have benefited from its work. It's unfortunate that some people must still rely on such services, but and I'm proud to say that the Bureau continues to support the vulnerable and at-risk people in our community, aided by Rachel, her team and the wonderful volunteers.

We very much enjoy the volunteering we do, and it means we meet lots of people and keep busy. We also wanted to share the skills and knowledge we have developed over the years. We have made some lovely friends doing these different roles and learnt lots of new stuff as well... and were not giving up entirely. I don’t think I could do that.

Without Andrew I would not be able to work and I’m very pleased he’s available to drive me. I love my job and I want to work, and I hope to complete my hygiene qualification soon. I would not be able to do it without Andrew’s help.

I do this for myself really and the bonus is I meet some lovely people along the way. On a Tuesday I also take Alan, to his favourite pub in Ilkeston for an hour. We put the world to rights, and he enjoys a pint and reminisces about old times. I enjoy it as much as he does.

I really look forward to Tuesday - it's a special day. My Befriender, Kate, is worth her weight in gold, and I really look forward to my weekly visit from both Kate and Bob. We got on as soon as we met and now it makes my week when they come. Kate is truly a friend, and she is part of my family, along with Bob.

After retiring, and losing my mum, I wanted to follow in her footsteps and give something back - I applied as a Volunteer Receptionist at Eastwood Volunteer Bureau & Food Bank, and have been in (and loving) the role ever since. Decades of experience in PR, Comms, and Digital Marketing has helped me to gain much needed exposure for EVB, resulting in many donations - something I'm very proud of. I meet so many amazing and inspiring people through the bureau - and it feels so good to know we're making a difference to people's lives. Thinking of becoming a volunteer? Do it!