Feeling Valued: My Experience as an Admin Volunteer at Carers Support

29th April 2026

When my mother was diagnosed with stage 4 breast cancer, it was a profound shock. I became her carer until she passed away two years later. This period was incredibly challenging, and I sought support to help me cope—that’s when I discovered Carers Support.

I was immediately impressed by the breadth of services they offered. Through free counselling, telephone befriending, online support groups, and walk-and-talk sessions, I found the strength to navigate one of the most difficult times in my life. I will always be grateful for the support they provided.

Five months after my mother’s passing, I saw that Carers Support was advertising for an admin volunteer. Wanting to give back and drawing on my experience in administration, I applied and was delighted to be accepted. From the start, I was struck by the warmth and friendliness of the team, who made me feel instantly welcome. As someone with OCD, I especially appreciated their understanding and support, which never made me feel awkward or out of place

My role was newly created, and I enjoyed the opportunity to shape it and contribute to its growth. My main responsibilities included volunteer recruitment, monitoring the volunteer email inbox, updating the CharityLog database, processing timesheets, sending out application forms, requesting references, and various other office tasks. The team included leads from counselling, befriending, and carers’ breaks services, and I was regularly invited to their team meetings. Being included in these discussions meant a great deal to me and gave me valuable insight into the team’s passion, dedication, and hard work. Their commitment to supporting both carers and volunteers is truly inspiring. 

“Through free counselling, telephone befriending, online support groups, and walk-and-talk sessions, I found the strength to navigate one of the most difficult times in my life.”

Volunteer well-being is a priority at Carers Support. They offer regular reviews, peer support sessions, and a dedicated support line. The organisation also fosters a strong sense of community through Christmas gatherings and volunteer newsletters. I particularly enjoyed meeting volunteers from the carers’ breaks and befriending services, learning about their roles, and hearing their experiences. 

“From the start, I was struck by the warmth and friendliness of the team, who made me feel instantly welcome.”

Over time, I was entrusted with more responsibilities, and my contributions were genuinely valued. I was consulted when new systems and procedures were introduced, and I was even invited to a volunteer coordinator networking event. The team also offered me paid work, further demonstrating their appreciation for my efforts. My role expanded to support other departments, such as the walk-and-talk service and young carers, which allowed me to broaden my skills and experience. 

Carers Support was also keen to support my professional development. They provided references for other jobs I applied for and encouraged me to use and develop skills from other areas of my life. For example, when I enrolled in a forest therapy practitioner training course, they offered me the opportunity to lead sessions for volunteers. This will not only give me valuable experience but also allow me to provide a therapeutic service to others. 

“Throughout my time at Carers Support, I have felt valued, respected, included, and supported.

Throughout my time at Carers Support, I have felt valued, respected, included, and supported. I am proud to have played a part in the growth and development of their services. I would highly recommend Carers Support to anyone looking for a fulfilling and rewarding voluntary role. 

Volunteer with Carers Support