Maureen
I am privileged to be part of our Macmillan team helping to make a difference and supporting local people and communities. I have always felt supported and valued as a volunteer that's why I am still volunteering after 10 + years.
I retired due to ill health, I began looking at volunteering opportunities in Glasgow. I saw an advert for Macmillan at Glasgow Libraries Information and Support Volunteers. Other volunteers and service users have helped me understand the challenges for people affected by cancer. It might be the person with a diagnosis or their friends or family. The training and support have helped me understand how best to offer support.
Being there for someone who has taken that brave step to come into the library and trust me to help them is very humbling. I feel I've made a difference no matter how small it is, it's the best feeling ever. For some people a cuppa and someone to listen to their story and a chat is enough. For others, it may mean referring to other services.
If you are considering volunteering with Macmillan at Glasgow Life I would say go for it. I have always felt supported and valued not only by the Macmillan at Glasgow Life staff team but by my fellow volunteers. When I first started some friends said " oh how can you do that? it must be so emotional". Well, yes it can be emotional. The staff team offer support and excellent training programmes. Volunteers support each other at service or at group meeting catch ups. You are never alone.