Paying it forward: Mandy’s journey from carer to volunteer
As with most volunteers, there is often a heartfelt motivation to ‘give something back’ to the local community by generously giving their time. Here at Carers Support, we welcome volunteers from all areas of the community and levels of expertise and skills. To make sure we are serving our carers well, the main skills we look for is the ability to listen and have empathy. As you will read in this story, empathy is a skill Mandy brought in abundance to the volunteering team.
Mandy’s caring role
Six years ago, Mandy became a full-time carer for her mum who was diagnosed with vascular dementia and Alzheimer’s. The implications were life changing in every way.
“I would describe it as the worst and best experience I have had. It has turned my life upside down and inside out. I have suffered mentally, emotionally, physically and financially and have learnt so many invaluable lessons along the way with the support of Carers support and other carers which has been the silver lining in what felt like a hopeless and helpless situation.”
Paying the kindness forward
Mandy started volunteering with Carers Support around two years ago after she recovered from severe burn out.
“I was supported hugely by Carers Support at a time when I felt overwhelmed, desperate, lost and alone.”
One phone call to Carers Support led Mandy to a very different place. She was sign posted to relevant links who could help her. Mandy received weekly phone calls from a Carers Support Volunteer, from the check in and chat service. Mandy received financial advice from the benefits advice service, which resulted in receiving Carers Allowance and attendance allowance for her Mum which relieved some of the pressure and stress. Mandy was offered 1-1 carer coaching, which turned things around with her declining mental health. Mandy’s experience was so profound that she made the decision she was going to “pay my experience forward by becoming a volunteer once I had recovered.”
What volunteering for Carers Support means to Mandy
Mandy is passionate about volunteering for carers support having been on the receiving end of all the support. Mandy said, “I get a great deal of comfort from being around, listening and talking to carers. I didn’t imagine it would be a two-way exchange, but it definitely is. To make a positive difference to someone makes me feel I am contributing in a small way to people like me who are supporting and caring for our loved ones. Carers support is an invaluable charity who offer a wealth of support and information. I would and do recommend volunteering for Carers support.”
If you would like to volunteer with Carers Support, take a look at the role available here.
