“Even the journey by public transport to get to the course is something I wouldn’t have been able to do previously, but I’m establishing bit by bit the building blocks to get me to where I want to be”
Pat and Patricia started the Future You NVQ Level 1 Volunteering course at the same time, at the beginning of February. We sat down with them for a quick chat about how they have found the course so far, what initially got them into it, and what they plan to do from now.
Pat finds her wings through Future You
“The volunteering training course has allowed me to expand my horizons by allowing me to really devote the time required to pick up the skills that would be useful going back into employment. I really like the idea of volunteering as it also feels like I am giving something back to the community”
Pat (on the left) is finding her wings through the NVQ Level 1 Volunteering programme, building her confidence back after what she admits has been a difficult period in her life. Pat says the opportunity to get out of the house, to enjoy a break from her usual surroundings, has done her the world of good, and the volunteering training has been the appropriate path to bring this out in her.
Pat was told about the Future You programmes by someone in the community and knew she wanted to get involved in some capacity, but wasn’t sure which activity suited her best. She called the future You Support Team and after a chat enrolled on the volunteering training. Pat hasn’t looked back, and although she says she is still very much on a journey to where she wants to be, she takes great pride in the strides she has made so far in rebuilding her confidence and learning key skills.
“Even the journey by public transport to get to the course is something I wouldn’t have been able to do previously, but I’m establishing bit by bit the building blocks to get me to where I want to be”
Patricia gets back her knack for volunteering
Patricia (on the right) is no stranger to volunteering, having already taken up many roles in retail or support services in the past. Patricia most recently volunteered with Age UK where she became aware of the opportunity to gain a qualification for her volunteering. She found she could bring some of her invaluable experience to the table when going through the course. Volunteering is something Patricia “has always done” and doesn’t see the reason to stop now. She has really taken to the opportunity of meeting new people and that chance to find her wings.
The Course
Mark Murdoch from Citizens Advice Gateshead, who leads the volunteering course says "If you're looking to volunteer as your next step towards employment, the course offers a great insight into the experience, and for those already volunteering, it's a great way to get a qualification that represents the dedication that you have already shown to your community."
He also adds "And we promise, you don't have to be called Pat!"
If you would like to find your wings through Future You call 0191 300 3900 to chat with a member of our friendly support team, or email support@futureyougateshead.org
Find out more information about Future You and the many other activities on offer at www.ourgateshead.org/future-you and check out our YouTube channel too.
