VOLUNTEERING can be a fantastic way to learn new skills and meet people and Carer Support Wiltshire are hugely grateful to those who give up their time to help us. Without the volunteers we have working with us we couldn’t operate effectively in a direct way to support the unpaid carers we are helping. Volunteers help to prevent carers from reaching crisis point.

Mary Tuck from Chippenham has been volunteering for eight years at one of CSW’s monthly Carer Cafes, held at the Methuen Arms, Corsham on every third Wednesday of the month. Her role is simply to run the café, which gives carers some much needed time out with cake, hot drinks and people to talk to who are in similar situations.

“I love to listen to the bustle,” said Mary. “It’s great to see new connections being made.” Mary was a carer to her own mother, dedicating over 50 hours a week to looking after her. When her mother died aged 102, Mary had hoped she and her husband would be able to enjoy more quality time together but he was sadly diagnosed with cancer and she then cared for him for almost a year.

“I relate to the people here because of my own experiences,” said Mary. “You set out to help others but end up filling your own life with new interests and making friends. Volunteering has been good for me.”

Volunteer Bernice Robbins, from Warminster, has been with CSW for three years. “Carers often say ‘How lovely to see you and thank you for helping me’. I am told that for some people to see that I have survived the caring role and can laugh again is a great encouragement,” she said.

CSW has many volunteers working in hospitals in the region. Ward Manager Anne Marie Nuth said: "They are a godsend. The volunteers are able to spend the amount of time with the patients and their relatives to facilitate really worthwhile communication, discussion of issues and concerns and signposting to relevant services. We are very grateful for their support.”

Could you give up a little time to support someone who has become isolated in their role? Allowing a carer some respite or making it possible for them to access an event is a big deal.

CSW are currently looking to fill a number of volunteering roles, including Carer Café Facilitator, assisting with Creative Carers, One to One Befriender, Fundraiser and Digital Engagement Support. For more information, please email Lindsey Millen at volunteer@carersupportwiltshire.co.uk.