Volunteers’ Week during the first week of June celebrates and recognises the contributions of volunteers. Is volunteering something that you have ever considered? Monica (pictured here with one of our volunteers) explains how volunteering was a springboard to a career change and provided an insight for her future roles.

“I’ve been fortunate to have a varied career, starting with 11 years in catering. In 2001, I began volunteering a few hours a week with the youth offending team, which proved to be a turning point.

The experience and contacts I gained opened the door to a new career path, working directly with social workers, prisons, job centres and hostels — opportunities I may not have had without my volunteering background.

Later, I moved into a role managing the recruitment, selection and induction of volunteers, drawing on my own volunteering experience to better support others.

Now in 2025, as Health Liaison with Forward Carers, I regularly work alongside volunteers (many of whom are Carers) at GP surgeries, hospitals and healthcare settings across Birmingham. The support of volunteers is vital to my role, and I couldn’t do it without them.

Who would have thought that a few hours of volunteering back in 2001 would shape my entire career journey?”

What Do You Think About Volunteering?

“Volunteering is immensely rewarding and valuable. It enables individuals to enrich services with their skills and expertise.

I have worked with many willing and enthusiastic volunteers over the years who have given up their free time to offer support where they can.

Volunteering can also enhance employment skills for those looking for a new career and would like to gain valuable experience in their chosen path.

When I was job searching, volunteering gave me reasons to get up and to get out and to feel included. It gave me confidence as well as the evidence to potential employers that I was willing to work. I would encourage anyone to give volunteering a try.”

Volunteering With Forward Carers

At Forward Carers we appreciate and value our volunteers all year round and are at the heart of Forward Carers. The contribution from volunteers enables us to expand our services and bring valuable insights from diverse community perspectives. We have different opportunities available depending on your interests and skills.