In the late 1990s, when my children started at the local swimming club, I watched on with much admiration at how volunteers contributed to and supported the club, and gave my children a fantastic experience. I wanted to give something back, so I volunteered first as a helper, and then with training I became a swimming teacher and coach.
I moved to Stocksbridge in 2017 shortly before my retirement from work, and in common with many people looking to retirement, I planned to fill my days doing things I enjoy. Volunteering at the Community Leisure Centre fulfilled one of my goals. It also helped me meet and get to know the wonderful and charming people in this community, who provided a warm welcome, even though I am not a born and bred Yorkshireman. I know it’s important to the centre and community, because as an unpaid volunteer, it enables the centre to offer services at an affordable price.
I am a Pool Responder supervising Public Swimming in the small pool, ensuring a safe, welcoming and enjoyable environment for customers. I always have a Lifeguard on call to provide backup, when and if needed, which is nice when I want a 5 minute break, or I need them for anything. I have also helped with other chores around the centre such as cleaning. It’s very flexible, and you can do as little as an hour, or tens of hours a week.
Volunteering provides me with focus, routine, social exchange, exercise, enjoyment and most important of all, satisfaction.
I would say for myself, but it is likely common to other volunteers, I find the role very rewarding, interesting and fun.