Shirley's experience of volunteering at The Skills Within

Skills Within support local communities and businesses through various events and activities, and provide a range of opportunities for residents to get involved. Shirley volunteers with Skills Within and shares her experience as a volunteer.

"As a 63-year-old woman with a passion for administrative work, I've found it challenging to secure paid roles that align with my experience and skills. In August 2024, my work coach suggested I explore local volunteer opportunities through Legends of the Forest. On the platform, I discovered a volunteer position as an administrator with a community-focused project management company called The Skills Within. Their mission of supporting local skill-building initiatives and providing community support resonated with me, so I applied.

"Within days, I had an initial call with the directors, followed by a meeting, and soon after, I began volunteering. Since then, I've been engaged in various administrative tasks, from data entry to managing correspondence and conducting online research. I also had the chance to participate in event setup and hospitality, which has been a fulfilling way to contribute to the organisation's project delivery efforts. The Skills Within has even offered me training, including becoming a "digital champion"—a role where I assist people at our events who may lack access to digital devices or the skills to use them.

"The Skills Within offers a diverse range of volunteer opportunities, from gardening and growing projects to supporting children with special educational needs, managing community food programs, cooking, marketing, and volunteer management. There's truly something for everyone and I would highly recommend reaching out to them for anyone looking to develop new skills or develop their 'Skills Within, gain more experience, or connect with their community.

"This experience has been incredibly rewarding. I've made new friends, built connections in my local area, gained valuable work experience, and developed new skills. I feel a greater sense of purpose, and I'm more optimistic about finding paid work in the future.

"The Skills Within may be a small and new organisation, but they are growing quickly. I'm excited about the possibility of growing alongside them and potentially exploring paid opportunities as they expand."