Volunteers' Week Spotlight - Shirley ✨

Volunteers' Week is a national celebration takes place every year during the first week of June, honouring the incredible impact volunteers have on their communities. It's a perfect moment to recognise, celebrate, and thank those who give their time so generously.

To mark the occasion, we’re highlighting the amazing volunteers supporting communities and charities across Bath & North East Somerset. To champion their contributions and show our appreciation, 3SG has spoken with several local volunteers to share their inspiring stories. Each day from June 2nd to 6th, we’ll be featuring a different volunteer and the difference they make.

On behalf of all charities, community groups, and third sector organisations across Bath & North East Somerset, we extend a heartfelt thank you to every volunteer. By sharing these stories, we hope to not only celebrate your efforts but also inspire others to get involved.

SHIRLEY

Up today we have retired nurse and animal lover, Shirley, who has been volunteering with Bath Cats and Dog's Home for an impressive 12 years. Over that time, Shirley has tried several different roles including dog walking, socialising kittens in the cattery, and supporting the fundraising efforts. She has also volunteered for Bath Toad and Frog Patrol Group. Shirley enjoys spending one-on-one time with the animals, whilst keeping active and getting to know fellow volunteers and staff. Read on to hear more about Martin's experiences, motivations and advice.

What inspired you to start volunteering?

After caring for humans for forty years in my varying roles as a nurse, I decided after retirement I would like to spend more of my time with animals.

What have you learnt from your experiences?

Always listen to those you work with who are more knowledgeable, whatever age, you never stop learning. Also the pleasure to be had from knowing you can make a difference to an animal’s life.

Have there been any stand alone moments or stories from your volunteering that you'd like to share?

In my role as a dog walker at Bath Cats and Dogs Home, I walked a Staffy called, Buttons, twice a week for two years with no interest shown in him by potential adopters. One day I arrived to take Buttons out and the magic had happened, someone had fallen in love with him and adopted him and they gave him a very happy life.

What have you learnt from your experiences?

Always listen to those you work with who are more knowledgeable, whatever age, you never stop learning. Also the pleasure to be had from knowing you can make a difference to an animal’s life.

What advice would you give to someone looking to start volunteering?

If you’re thinking of volunteering, just do it. There is so much to be gained by the knowledge that you are helping a very good cause while at the same time supporting your mental health.

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Interested in becoming a volunteer?

Check out our Volunteer page for more information, and where else to find opportunities.

You can also subscribe to 3SG's monthly Community Newsletter, and 3SG's Volunteer Whatsapp group, to be kept up to date with new, local volunteer opportunities, on a monthly basis.