Grace Palmer

I have volunteered in my school holidays helping people at the Stroke Club. This is helping them to have drinks and food when they need it, playing board games with them and sitting and talking to them.

• I learnt to carry out day-to-day duties accurately and efficiently as required by a volunteer.
• Quickly learned what was needed and the routine of the day
• It is important I am able to engage and build rapport with the people attending. Some have severe disabilities and I need to demonstrate respect, friendliness and willingness to help wherever needed.
• Because of the needs of the people attending it was important I arrive on time and ready to start immediately.

I have been a volunteer with Home Run Hounds since March 2022. It is a dog charity rehoming ex racing greyhounds. My duties include looking after the welfare of the dogs, but I now have a range of duties include:

• Leading volunteer inductions for new volunteers. Making sure they are clear on the rules and standards required to be a volunteer and also making sure they understand greyhounds and the risks.
• Manning fund raising stalls selling merchandise and handling cash. Making sure we sell items at the right price, help customers choose items and provide friendly service.
• Talking to the public about the greyhounds and helping them understand the dogs. Answering their questions, engaging with them and building rapport.

I enjoy helping people, answering their questions and looking after them.

Initially as work experience in June 2023 helping look after the dogs in care, but was asked to come and do following summer and easter holiday periods to help out.

A weeks work experience as a teaching assistant looking after primary school children, helping them with maths and english and looking after them at break time.