When Avril, in Stockton-on-Tees, was thinking about what she wanted to do when she retired from her job at Durham University, volunteering was top of her list. She's been a volunteer for Re-engage for six years now and she's as passionate and active as ever.

Why did you decide to volunteer for Re-engage?

I didn't want to retire and leave work without having a plan of what to do in my spare time. A former work colleague asked if I would be interested in helping her with setting up a local branch of Re-engage and I was more than happy to help.

Tell us about your current role

I attend monthly tea parties as a driver, and I am a tea party host for the local branch here in Stockton. During the pandemic I was also involved in helping to organise and deliver doorstep drops, together with contacting my nominated guests for regular telephone chats.  When they could get out, I took guests shopping and occasionally to hospital appointments.

You’ve been a volunteer with us for six years now. How has your experience been?

I have to say I've loved every minute! Our friendship group not only supports our older guests but also brings so much joy to me as a volunteer.  The volunteers have become a close-knit group, supporting each other through good times and bad.  I’m so grateful for their friendship.  Our group coordinator Jan has been amazing – she not only looks at opportunities for away days for our guests, but also supports them in accessing facilities to aid independent living. She is really special, and I respect her immensely.

Have there been any highlights from over the years?

Every tea party has its highlights as we learn new things about our guests, from go-carting at 80 to life in Australia and how they met their partners.  I hear so many special, amusing, and wonderful stories.

Our trips to the seaside for fish and chips always go down well, as did the rickshaw rides in our local park.  A picnic round the bandstand listening to brass bands brought back some lovely memories for our guests.

Have you had any challenges?

The only real challenge is when one of our guests passes away – and sadly we've had a few. But we all support each other and attend funerals to pay our respects. It's very rewarding to hear from families that we had such a positive impact on their loved one’s lives – as they did on ours’.

What motivates you?

I have a very blessed life and I so think it’s important for me to give something back to my community.  Volunteering with Re-engage has given me the opportunity to do just that.

What skills or knowledge have you learnt through being a volunteer for Re-engage?

I've learned that older people have a wealth of knowledge, have seen it all, and are an amazing source of information on every aspect of life.  Volunteering is also a great way of honing communication and listening skills.

What makes you happy?

I have a very busy social life, meeting up with friends on a regular basis, which I really enjoy.  There’s always lots of chat and laughter and it keeps me young. I love interior design and my hobby is making Christmas Garlands to go over mantlepieces and on staircases. Some years I make about 30 – thank goodness for glue guns.  Most importantly I'm going to become a first time Grandma this year – so I have a feeling my lifestyle is about to change forever… and I couldn't be happier.

What advice would you give to anyone thinking about signing up as a volunteer

Just do it. It will enhance your life, as well as those of your guests. You'll never regret it.