The Power of Volunteerism

Volunteers remain at the heart of what we do, enabling us to initiate and sustain our services while promoting our work in the community through events and fundraisers. Despite a slight decrease in volunteer numbers this financial year—largely due to people having less time to volunteer, needing additional jobs, and adjusting back to routines post-COVID—we are grateful for the constant flow of new applicants. This steady onboarding ensures we can continue to meet our mission.

Our volunteers engage in various roles, from facilitating support groups and providing administrative assistance to organising fundraising events and promoting mental health awareness. This year, they contributed over 5,356 hours of their time, worth £100,933 to Dorset Mind, a testament to their immense value. Their dedication has allowed us to provide direct support to 14,351 people across Dorset, including 3,339 adults and 1,462 children and young people with 1-2-1 and group well-being support.

Empowering Through Training and Education

To ensure our volunteers are well-equipped, we rolled out a comprehensive training program that included sessions on Mental Health Awareness, Boundaries and Resilience, and Understanding Suicide. This training empowers our volunteers to perform their roles effectively and confidently.

Additionally, we were fortunate to have three placement students from Bournemouth University who provided valuable support to our Marketing and Adult Services teams. These placements not only benefit the students through learning and development but also strengthen our partnership with local educational institutions.

Building Community and Connection

Volunteering at Dorset Mind goes beyond providing support—it also fosters a strong sense of community among volunteers. Social events and team meetings throughout the year have ensured that volunteers connect with each other, allowing us to convey our gratitude and appreciation. These gatherings are vital for building camaraderie and a supportive volunteer network, something we aim to expand in the coming months.

Our ambassadors also play a crucial role in championing our work through their networks and contributing to key awareness days. This year, we welcomed three new Ambassadors, each bringing lived experience and recovery journeys. They have completed a Strength Finders assessment to ensure their skills are utilised to their full potential, aligning with our new strategy to further our impact within the community.

Wellbeing Benefits of Volunteering

Volunteering not only benefits those who receive help but also profoundly impacts the well-being of the volunteers themselves. According to the Five Ways to Wellbeing, volunteering can touch upon all key aspects:

1. Connect: Volunteering fosters meaningful connections, combating loneliness and building a sense of community.

2. Be Active: Many volunteering activities involve physical activity (such as Eco in Mind!), which helps volunteers stay active and healthy.

3. Take Notice: Some voluntary activities can foster mindfulness, particularly events that take place in nature.

4. Keep Learning: Volunteering provides opportunities for training, skill development, and learning via experience.

5. Give: The act of giving time and effort creates a sense of purpose and fulfillment.

Volunteer feedback highlights these benefits: “My experience with Dorset Mind has been heart-warming. I feel grateful to be able to give something back to the community in such a meaningful way.” Another volunteer noted, “Being able to offer my time to help and support others has been rewarding for me personally. It’s great to have a real purpose and to know that you are helping others.”

A Heartfelt Thank You

As we celebrate Volunteers’ Week, we extend our deepest gratitude to every volunteer who makes Dorset Mind’s work possible. Your dedication, compassion, and hard work do not go unnoticed. You are the lifeline for many, providing hope, support, and a sense of community to those who need it most.

If you are interested in becoming a volunteer, we welcome you to join our family. Whether you have a few hours to spare or can commit to a regular schedule, your contribution will make a significant difference. Together, we can continue to promote mental health awareness and support in Dorset, creating a brighter future for all.

In conclusion, volunteers are not just an addition to Dorset Mind; they are integral to our existence and success. As we celebrate this Volunteers’ Week, let us all take a moment to appreciate and acknowledge the incredible value that volunteers bring to our community. Thank you for your generosity, your time, and your unwavering support. You are truly making the world a better place, one act of kindness at a time.