Why did you decide to volunteer for Headway Belfast?

I had worked in the field of brain injury as Training and Development Manager in Reconnect for a number of years, so when I retired I thought I'd offer my services to Headway Belfast. I enjoy working in the area of brain injury and love working with people.  It gives me great pleasure when I see first-hand the real benefits Headway Belfast brings to some of the individuals that I work with.
 
What is your role as a volunteer at Headway?

My defined role is that of a Volunteer Information Officer which is a really varied role.  I work directly with some of the groups within Headway and my work involves planning activities, taking part in drama workshops and going along on outings.  I also visit schools and organisations where I give talks on brain injury and its effects and consequences.  I’m not sure how many hours I volunteer as it varies each week, but that’s the part that I enjoy - variety is the spice of life!
 
What do you like the most about volunteering?

I really enjoy working with all the different personalities and adapting my response to meet the needs of the service users who all have very different and unique injuries.  It’s great to be able to  put my past experience and qualifications to good use.  I especially enjoy the drama workshops – they’re always hilarious and we have some very talented actors here at Headway Belfast!
 
What would you say to people who were considering volunteering?

I think volunteering is a two way experience in which the volunteer should gain as much satisfaction from their contribution as the organisation does. I would also say that you need to be friendly, have a good personality and be keen and enthusiastic to get the most out of your time as a volunteer.

A big well done to our volunteer, Joan McCartney who was recently shortlisted for a prestigious award by Lisburn City Council as part of their ‘Awards for Volunteering’ scheme.

The awards were designed to recognise the many volunteers who give up their time regularly to support community endeavours and strive to achieve positive change.

Joan was nominated for the Adult Volunteer of the Year within the Lisburn City Council area for her commitment and hard work to the Lisburn Outreach group on a Tuesday. Joan not only works closely with this group but also helps out on a Thursday afternoon during day service and gives up her time to give talks to schoolchildren to promote awareness of brain injury and the importance of wearing cycle helmets.

Although Joan did not win the award, it was a great opportunity to highlight her contribution to Headway Belfast and recognise her commitment to the individuals she works with, well done!