Celebrating Volunteers’ Week 2025

 “I don’t think of myself as a volunteer but as a friend.”

A very happy Volunteers’ Week to all Ruils Volunteers! We are incredibly lucky to have a fantastic team of Ruils volunteers who sustain our Befriending service, 1-2-1 walks service and lead our 13 activity groups. They give so much and ask for nothing in return. It can be hard to find the words to show our appreciation for all they do – and the impact they have on their clients – but THANK YOU is a great place to start!

We asked our volunteers to reflect on their time with us and what they would say to someone thinking of joining as a Ruils volunteer. They had a lot to say:

“Volunteering with Ruils means a lot to me, especially as someone who has also struggled with long-term health issues. Being both a counsellor and volunteer, and supporting people with neurological conditions has deepened my empathy and understanding of disability. It’s also helped my own well-being by giving me a sense of purpose and connection. The bond I’ve built with my clients is based on trust and mutual respect, and it’s rewarding to see how small, consistent support can make a real difference in daily life.” – Monika

“I telephone befriend 2 women who both appreciate my calls. One of my clients has no contact with other people except her son and grandchildren. I love telephone befriending as I know that my call lifts their days. I get very good vibes off both of them and they’re both very grateful for my calls so it lifts my spirits (as I’m hoping it lifts theirs).” – Patty

“I support adults with anxiety or depression to use their creativity to help their well being and believe in themselves and feel they are safe to express themselves. Volunteering gives me a positive focus.  It allows me to use my own skills to give to others to keep me knowledgeable in the outside world keep up with training courses and to be involved with lovely kind people. Being involved with Ruils is the most rewarding volunteering opportunity you can do. To be part of a team to see those who might struggle with everyday life form friendship and commitment to a writing group has been amazing to see. I don’t think of myself as a volunteer but as a friend. For I have also been a user of Ruils it helped me get back on track when things seemed dark and isolating.  So I too have gained so much. Thank you Ruils.”  – Babs

“I chose volunteering for Ruils as a way of giving back to a truly exceptional charity. In doing so I have learnt a great deal and become more organised to make it easier to always fulfil a commitment I truly hope is beneficial to my client, who happens to be a truly charming, genuine, and accomplished individual, who I sincerely wish to always remain friends with.” – Christina

“Volunteering with Ruils is a new journey for me, but it’s already been incredibly rewarding. I was drawn to the role because I wanted to give back in a meaningful way, and even in this short time, I’ve seen how valuable this kind of support can be for clients. Over the course of my time volunteering, I’ve been able to improve my bond with my clients, and it’s been amazing to see how they’ve opened up and trusted me more in return. Building a connection with someone and being a steady, friendly presence in their life is truly a privilege. Although I’m still finding my feet, I can already feel the positive impact it’s had on my own wellbeing—it’s grounding, fulfilling, and gives a strong sense of purpose. I’m really looking forward to growing in this role and continuing to be part of the positive difference Ruils makes every day.” – Isella

“Spending time as a Ruils befriender, helping people in our community to get out and about and have some much needed social company, has been a very rewarding experience. I have met some really interesting people who have definitely enriched my life. Throughout the experience I have been well supported by Ruils and would strongly recommend anyone thinking about it to get involved!” – Sarah

Want to learn more about volunteering at Ruils? There truly is a role for everyone!

Learn more and sign up here.