While out of work, Tim met with his job support worker, who informed him that Bury Carers Hub, provided by n-compass, may need a volunteer. After some consideration, Tim felt the time was right to be more proactive and move on in his life. 

Tim had a meeting with Jayne, the Service manager at Bury Carers Hub. Tim said, “I loved how passionate she was about the work of the Hub and volunteering, so I thought, why not? I want to volunteer,  but I did wonder what I was letting myself in for, to be honest.”

After meeting up with Ian, the Volunteer Hub manager at n-compass, Tim started the process of becoming a volunteer, completing paperwork and undertaking training.

Tim started volunteering at the coffee morning in Bury and later supporting the group in Ramsbottom. Coffee and Chats are a safe space for carers to connect with one another and offer support. Tim’s role was to make people feel welcome, help with the drinks and encourage conversation.

Tim said, “Meeting Jayne and her lovely team has been amazing. From day one, they treated me as a member of the team and not just as a volunteer.”

Tim continued his volunteering journey with another member of the Bury team, Jim, who ran the discharge project at a local hospital in Bury, offering extra support to carers who may have a loved one in hospital. Jim was delighted to guide Tim and share his knowledge.

Volunteering with the Bury team has helped Tim to grow his confidence, which has led to him gaining employment.  

Tim said, “Volunteering has given me a chance to shine again. I’m a people person and love being around people; I have realised the skills I’ve learnt through volunteering can help me get back to work.”

Tim has decided to remain a volunteer as the Carers Hub has left a lasting impression on him. Tim said, “I can’t forget the lovely carers. We’ve had laughs, and I’ve been there to listen to them when they have been going through a hard times”