“I always wanted do some sort of volunteering in my retirement, but wasn’t sure what was available to participate in. Having moved to Canterbury I initially went back to my knitting, and knitted items for the local maternity hospital. As time went on, I realised there were no craft groups in my area which met during the day, so I started one. Then I heard of From One Mother To Another (OMTA) and thought I might enjoy being active without being directly involved with assisting parents under stress. In March 2023 I joined up. Having done so, I have become more and more involved, and love helping with any task which needs to be done.
The more I have worked with OMTA and my craft group, the more I have got out of them. Often the ideas overlap and the experience of one group is useful with another group. More importantly, the management of OMTA is superb. They are so grateful for anything a volunteer can do, and they express the gratitude so often. This in turn encourages further involvement. I have realised that this group is probably a mental health charity, assisting with parents under stress with sick children. Most of the volunteers have experienced the trauma of a sick child or grandchild in hospital, and as a result, they are keen to help others in similar situations. It is so heartwarming to see such care and dedication.
Volunteering has a positive effect on mental health, gets you out meeting people and communicating with others. Even in retirement we can learn new skills and contribute to our communities. I have always recommended volunteering to those with depression, or who are unemployed, to get out, meet people and enjoy giving back. This can also assist some find permanent work and feel proud of what they can achieve. A win-win for the volunteer and their communities.”
