"Volunteering has enriched my life in so many ways over the years.”

Meet Gilly, over the last year, she has been working with West London NHS Trust's Volunteer Services team as a Project Support Volunteer. To mark ‘Volunteers’ Week’, she shares how her volunteering journey at West London NHS Trust has helped her in many ways. 

“It's lovely to have this opportunity to connect with fellow volunteers to mark the start of Volunteers' Week - a time to celebrate volunteering at the Trust. 

“My main role has been developing, delivering, and reporting on the first Trust-wide volunteer experience survey.

“From collating the survey responses and from my own first-hand experience, I know the fulfilment that volunteering at the Trust brings, with an amazing overall satisfaction rating of 97% reported by volunteers in the survey. I have no doubt the survey results will be used to make the volunteer experience even better for everyone. 

“Like so many of you, I also very much enjoy my experience as a Trust volunteer. In my paid role, I work in volunteer management for a hospice. I took up volunteering as I was interested in the similarities and differences in engaging volunteers between the two organisations, and to learn more about what works well in the NHS and any challenges. I've always found volunteering an amazing learning and development opportunity, whilst having the satisfaction of giving back at the same time.

 “Like volunteers at the hospice, those at the Trust show how much support there is for patients and those who love and care for them. Volunteers add something very special, showing how much the local community cares and humanising our services.  

“I have many memorable moments from volunteering at the Trust. From being welcomed so warmly as part of my team, the support of other volunteers in my project, achieving our ambitious target for survey responses, and presenting the final report to the Trust-wide Volunteer Forum. It has made me feel I am helping to ensure the volunteer voice is heard and acted upon. 

“Volunteering has enriched my life in so many ways over the years. Whatever role you have, and however long you've been a volunteer, I hope it has enriched your life too and will continue to do so. Thank you for giving the precious gift of your time.  

“Wishing everyone a very happy Volunteers’ Week!”   

Gilly Fisher

Project Support Volunteer – West London NHS Trust