We’re all told volunteering is a great way to give back to the community, but volunteering can help us just as much as it helps others. Jane, a volunteer at our Hersham Centre for the Community, found herself having a challenging time just a few months ago.

"Since I lost my husband 4 years ago, what had been my busy life began to shrink and I found myself with very little to fill my days."

But when she decided to take up a volunteer role at her Hersham Centre, she found a whole community waiting to meet her. "I was made to feel extremely welcome," she says. "I quickly got to know staff, other volunteers and all the lovely folk who come on a daily basis."

Jane now helps out regularly at the Centre, including joining in the fun at their weekly activities and special lunches, and definitely feels it benefits her as much as those she helps support.

 ‘I am so happy I finally decided to volunteer,’ Jane says. ‘Volunteering has been a life saver for me.’

If you’re looking for a way to support your local community, check out our volunteering webpage for our latest opportunities, or contact our Community Support Team at commservices@elmbridge.gov.uk.