Everyone has a story: Sally’s volunteering story
When Sally joined Healthwatch North Yorkshire, she was looking for something meaningful to do with her time. She wanted to use her existing skills in a new setting while continuing to contribute to her local community.
“I wanted to volunteer for an organisation that gave me new experiences while using my existing skills and knowledge.”
What she found was not only new experiences, but a real sense of purpose.
“It feels good to know that the time I give is helping something important.”
Listening to people's stories
One of Sally’s main roles is speaking to people at community events and listening activities, giving them the opportunity to talk about both positive experiences and the challenges they have faced with health and social care.
“Sometimes people just need someone to listen properly. You can see how much it means to them.”
For Sally, these conversations are what make volunteering so rewarding.
“You realise very quickly that everyone has a story. Being able to take that story forward is a real responsibility.”
Whether someone wants to share a concern, recognise good care or simply talk about their experience, taking the time to listen helps make sure what matters to them is understood.
Part of the bigger picture
What volunteers hear through these conversations helps us build a picture of what matters most to local people.
“You might not see the end result straight away, but you know you are part of the bigger picture.”
While Sally may not always see an immediate outcome from a conversation, she values knowing that what people share can contribute to improvements over time.
“Health and social care affect everyone at some point. If sharing experiences can help make it better, then it’s worth doing.”
Volunteering has also given Sally the opportunity to meet people from different backgrounds and learn more about the experiences of others.
“You meet people from all walks of life. It’s broadened my perspective and helped me feel more connected to the community.”
Everyone has a story
For Sally, volunteering has provided an opportunity to use her skills in a new way, meet people from across her community and help make sure local experiences count.
“I enjoy helping people and making a difference. The health and social care sector is so important for everyone and I appreciate the opportunities that Healthwatch has given me to speak with different people and promote local voices and opinions.”
Perhaps the most important thing Sally has learned through volunteering is also the simplest: everyone has a story.
By taking the time to listen, she helps people feel heard and helps us understand what health and social care is really like for people across North Yorkshire.
Thank you, Sally, for everything you do.
