VOLUNTEERING FEATURE
The Volunteer Service co-ordinates volunteers to support public activities of the Oxford University ’ s Gardens , Libraries and Museums ( GLAM ) and runs a volunteer bank system . On completion of the recruitment and induction process , volunteers are advised of volunteering opportunities and put themselves forward for any they are interested in .
In addition to a number of regular volunteering roles , there are also a huge number of ad hoc opportunities that make it easy to fit around other commitments , such as work , study or caring responsibilities , and this flexibility has been invaluable in accommodating the shifting demands in my own life over recent years .
Volunteer-supported activities across such diverse settings as the Weston Library , Botanic Gardens and Ashmolean Museum help to create a diverse and ambitious programme of events , often encouraging participants at these sessions to explore environments that they would not otherwise have done and introducing them to a wealth of history , expertise and exhibits that can start or rekindle an interest in art , natural history , horticulture , music , science , language and a variety of other subjects .
The interactive nature of the activities , whether craft-based , gallery talks , or group discussions , helps stimulate expressive communication and personal reflection , sharing stories and experiences .
As an occupational therapist in training , I continually explore the role of occupation in health and wellbeing , in both broad and specific terms – from the ways that occupation connects us as humans to fulfil the basic activities of survival and nurture our creativity , intellect and spirituality , to the meaning and value of specific occupation for individuals in establishing roles , shaping identity and developing skills .
Like many people , I have always considered independence to be an important aspect of life , not only in practical day-to-day terms , but also in building the problem-solving skills and resilience to be able to tackle challenging life events , and of course occupational therapists often work to help enable independence .
The contradiction is that we , as humans , are innately social and conditioned to participate within our communities on many levels . In today ’ s fast-paced world it is easy to forget the importance of those interpersonal connections that make us part of a family , team , community and wider world , and for me , volunteering is a wonderful way to bring that into focus .
As I have moved through different phases of my life – career break , caring responsibilities , study – volunteering has been something constant and dependable that has helped to make me feel rooted in my community and linked to others through common needs , goals , interests and circumstances .
Life changes have sometimes left me without the familiar roles and occupations that have previously contributed to my self-image and self-esteem , and at these times the sense of purpose in volunteering has helped to restore my self-confidence and motivation in forging a new sense of self .
Though a variety of volunteering roles , I have been able to practise many existing transferrable skills such as communication , teamwork and organisation , in a number of different contexts , from training and team meetings to organising events and coaching other volunteers .
I have also learnt many new skills such as project management , fundraising , safety assessment and marketing , through leading projects and co-ordinating events . Many of my volunteer colleagues have discussed the practical benefits that volunteering has given them as they look to build experience for the workplace or education , as well as the way in which it has helped to increase their confidence and positivity .
Every community has opportunities for volunteering , which means that there is the chance to take part in an activity of personal interest that also fits with individual needs and circumstances .
Through working as a volunteer with families and young adults , I have been able to gain a real insight into the ways that different people approach parenting and the dynamics of children participating in social activities .
This has helped me to put into perspective my own values , choices and expectations as a parent , and to have a greater understanding of the role that the social environment plays in my child ’ s development , attitudes and behaviours .
Likewise , the projects that I have been involved in to support older adults in the community have served to highlight the issues facing the ageing population and how others in the wider community can play a role in supporting them day to day .
I have also been able to follow specific areas of interest , such as art and history , and to share my enthusiasm for these with fellow volunteers and participants alike , often forming the basis for future friendships .
The nature of volunteering makes it an activity that is particularly responsive to the needs of those involved in a voluntary capacity , creating a caring and supportive environment . As someone living with a chronic health condition , I am aware of the impact that the restrictions of a medical condition can have on mental health and wellbeing , and how they can affect day-to-day living ; without consideration and attention , they can lead to withdrawal , loneliness and isolation .
For those experiencing mental health issues such as depression , volunteering can be a very effective and accessible resource . Unlike medications , there are no side effects to be concerned about and the individual is in control of how , when and where they participate , knowing they will be supported in their endeavours and will not have to manage alone .
Seeing other people give their time and make a commitment to the wellbeing of others , and working alongside colleagues to reach a common goal , helps to maintain faith in oneself and in society .
The recent pandemic has shown the incredible possibilities when people reach out to others , sharing their time and resources , and doing what we can all do best – being human .
Linda Jones , postgraduate student at Oxford Brookes University , MSc ( pre-registration ) Occupational Therapy
OTnews November 2021 51