Headway Bristol began as a volunteer‑run organisation. Even as we’ve grown, volunteers remain at the heart of everything we do. This week is Volunteers’ Week in the UK, and we wanted to take a moment out to highlight our volunteers’ brilliant work, as well as to let you know what we’re doing for them to say a big thank you (on behalf of staff, carers and the service users who benefit so much from their hard work).
“When our volunteers come into the centre to help, they bring so much more than just their time. They bring their personalities, energy, interests – sometimes even lived experience of brain injury. It adds an invaluable dimension to our service, and I’m consistently impressed with the quality of volunteers we attract. It wouldn’t be the same without them, and I know that staff and service users alike appreciate their effort hugely.”
Simon, Support Worker at Headway Bristol
Firstly – who are these volunteers? Well, we have a real mix: brain injury survivors looking to give something back to headway; psychology, health and social care students looking to gain more practical experience in their chosen field; retirees and those in work who want to offer their time and experience a new challenge. All our volunteers bring something unique and valuable to our sessions. If this might be you – why not find out more about volunteering at Headway Bristol?
Announcing our new volunteer badge
This week, to celebrate Volunteer’s week, service users in our Wellbeing Centres are co-developing a badge design that represents our origins as a volunteer‑led organisation, the contribution volunteers make today, and the connection between volunteers and our service users.
Every new volunteer will receive one as part of their welcome, creating a sense of identity and belonging from day one. And when they eventually leave it can represent a nice keepsake. Watch this space to see more on the design! We look forward to announcing the final vision at our upcoming AGM!
Fun at our volunteers-only event
We recently hosted a special games night at our Reablement & Wellbeing Centre – just for volunteers. The event was a ‘thank you’, honouring the incredible effort and impact of volunteers who support us to provide vital social, physical and cognitive rehabilitation for brain injury survivors. Their contribution is truly life-changing and they are the lifeblood of our charity.
Sharon and Millie, our dedicated Volunteer Coordinators, took the lead as hosts, keeping the games, fun and prizes flowing. And beyond the fun, the event gave volunteers an opportunity to connect and reflect on the deep personal rewards of being part of the Headway family.
“Volunteering at Headway is a wonderful opportunity to get to know people from many different backgrounds and life stories. It is most definitely an exercise in empathy, compassion and individuality. It is lovely to be surrounded by staff and volunteers who share many similar views and attitudes towards the service and the individuals that use it.”
Headway Bristol Volunteer
Even a small commitment can have an exponential impact on ABI survivors:
“I’ve been surprised since I been coming here. It took me by surprise the number of people who are here helping and giving up their time.”
Headway Bristol service user
If you think you might have what it takes, then get in touch, we’d love to hear from you.