Read to see how volunteering for Home-Start Norfolk truly made an incredible impact on Tracey and changed her life.
“Volunteering for Home-Start Norfolk has given me back my confidence and self-esteem. Before I started my volunteering journey, I had been ill for a long time. I had to have life changing and lifesaving surgery. I had every bit of my self-confidence taken away; my self-esteem had gone. I had always worked full time but unfortunately due to my illness I found myself stuck at home with no purpose. This took a huge toll on my mental health. I was very isolated, apart from my partner, children, and grandchildren, I saw no one.
It had been eleven years since my illness, and I finally felt ready to do something new, but I wasn’t yet prepared to return to full-time work. Volunteering seemed like the perfect stepping stone. I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do, but I created a profile on Voluntary Norfolk, highlighting my skills, experiences, and work history.
Then, Home-Start Norfolk reached out to me. They thought I would be a great match for their organisation. That moment changed everything. Someone had read my profile and wanted me. I felt seen, valued, and needed.
Volunteering for Home-Start Norfolk has been a lifeline. It gave me me back. I feel confident again. I realised I was far more capable than I thought. Helping others gave me a deep sense of pride and purpose. There’s no other feeling like it.
I’ll never forget my first family visit. I was so nervous and anxious, but my training quickly kicked in, and I flourished in the role. By the time I supported my second family, I felt like a pro. The gratitude I received during my visits made it all worthwhile. Giving up my time felt meaningful. What’s more, the families I supported gave me more than I could ever give them,and they don’t even know it.
I’m truly grateful for the opportunity Home-Start gave me. Without that stepping stone, I would never have regained my confidence, and I wouldn’t have pursued my dream of opening my own Flower shop. But I did, in January! I’m now self-employed and a business owner. And I know, without a doubt, that I would never have made that leap without my time I spent volunteering
I am forever grateful to Home-Start Norfolk. I would highly recommend volunteering to anyone, especially if you feel like I did: stuck, unsure, or even worthless. Just do it. You are more amazing than you realise.”