This week we’re celebrating Volunteers Week and taking time to thank our amazing volunteers

As we celebrate Volunteers Week, we wanted to continue to share the stories of those people who are indispensable to West Kent Mind; our volunteers. We could not put on the services and programmes that we do without their dedicated support. Our volunteers are a valued part of our team, and we’re grateful for their passion, energy and commitment.

Here, Neil, one of our longest standing volunteers who runs the Mindful Gardening group, shares his story of volunteering for West Kent Mind.

1. What inspired you to start volunteering with West Kent Mind?

I can’t remember exactly what inspired me to start volunteering. It was probably my brother in law (who used to work at WKM). He mentioned the creation of a garden at the centre and I offered to help. Over the years I’ve also been involved in other groups such as a walking group and sports groups that used to be based in the community.

2. How long have you been volunteering, and what drew you to this role?

I have been volunteering since the gardening group started up again, about fifteen years ago. Being a keen amateur gardener the challenge of restoring and creating a new garden would have drawn me towards that role.

3. What does volunteering mean to you personally?

Volunteering, I suppose, is ultimately giving your time to others. Or doing something collectively to achieve whatever it may be. It’s a great thing to be able do.

4. What kind of volunteering do you do here, and what does a typical session look like?

I help run the gardening group on a Thursday. Weather permitting we are usually outside endeavouring to grow vegetables and plants whilst keeping the weeds at bay. There is a lot of chatting, a fair amount of tea/coffee drinking and failing to keep away from the biscuit tin! We have always had a relaxed atmosphere in the garden with everyone free to participate as it suits. That can mean anything from coming outside for a chat to growing and harvesting a favourite crop. Or even creating a new area. There are no preconceptions. We are all the same in the garden.

5. What’s been the most rewarding part of your volunteering experience?

One of the most rewarding parts of volunteering is meeting people, for whatever reason, you may not have otherwise met. I have often walked around the town and bumped into people who have been part of the group. There is a sense of community and achievement that is worthwhile.

6. How do you think your volunteering makes a difference to others?

I think the biggest difference we make is being there for people to come and communicate with. It can be incredibly difficult to make that first step. Whatever the group, it’s meeting up and seeing people that makes the most difference.

7. Have you learned any new skills or gained any insights since you started volunteering?

Initially we had several mentors and subsequently various training sessions over the years. So my gardening skills and knowledge have improved. More importantly having a greater understanding of others. Unlike a broken limb in a cast you can’t appreciate or understand someone dealing with mental health from a first glimpse or distance.

8. Is there a story or memory from your time volunteering that really stands out?

There have been so many memories and stories over the years. Many involving humour which is always important for all of us at times. Winning various awards for the garden was memorable. It gave a sense of pride to all of us at the time.