During Volunteers' Week, we’re catching up with some of our volunteers to hear about their experiences of volunteering for Re-engage and what makes them tick. 

During normal times, Naomi is a volunteer driver for Re-engage.

Why did you decide to become a Re-engage volunteer?

I'm very aware how isolating life can become as you get older. If I can make even a small difference by enabling people to get together for some cake and a chat, then it's time well spent. 

What does your role involve?

In non-Covid times I have been a reserve driver, delivering our older guests to and from our monthly tea parties. In the latest winter lockdown, every week I baked and delivered home made cakes to our regular tea party guests. 

What's the best thing about being a volunteer for Re-engage?

I really enjoy phoning our guests on a Monday morning, having a catch-up chat and taking their cake order. I deliver cake orders on a Wednesday and have the joy of a face-to-face doorstep chat. It's so lovely to be able to make connections and let people know they are not alone. 

What makes you get out of bed every morning?

Normally my cat! She comes and pats me on the nose at 7am asking for food. Aside from that, I'm motivated by my family around me. We home educate our son, who will turn 11 this summer. He normally helps me do the baking and deliveries. 

Do you have a favourite saying or quote that you live by?

I love Winnie the Pooh – there are so many wonderful quotes to live by, such as;

"How you make others feel says a lot about who you are. Leave them with a smile, a hug and a kind thought." 

What do would you say to anyone who was thinking about becoming a volunteer?

Becoming a volunteer for Re-engage has been so rewarding. Just seeing the smiles on the faces of our guests, and listening to their life stories, is not just interesting, but also humbling. I've learnt a lot from this amazing generation.