Volunteering with Southside Housing Association has helped Community Initiatives Volunteers Alison and Santhosh build confidence, learn new skills and make a visible difference in their local community.
Alison first became involved after attending Southside Housing Association’s holiday programme with her daughter and granddaughter and joining a meeting about a new play park. Almost ten years later, she has supported family holiday programmes, breakfast mornings for older residents, ‘Smiley Saturday’ family activities and the ‘Halfway Community Park’ project. She is also now part of Southside Housing
Association’s Board.
For Alison, volunteering began as a way to meet people and manage anxiety and depression. With encouragement from staff and other volunteers, she has grown from feeling shy and unsure into someone who is confident, willing to try new things and proud to support others. Training in food hygiene, first aid and dementia awareness has helped her feel equipped to contribute safely and effectively.
Santhosh began volunteering in September 2023 after leaving work because of childcare responsibilities. The role gave her a renewed sense of purpose during school hours and introduced her to new experiences, particularly supporting breakfast mornings and working with food. Although she had no previous food service experience, Southside Housing Association supported her with food hygiene training, cooking classes and other learning opportunities.
Both volunteers describe the value of encouragement, practical training and approachable staff. This support has enabled them to take on new responsibilities, develop skills and feel part of a team. Their experiences show that volunteering can improve wellbeing, reduce isolation for volunteers themselves and create pathways into confidence, learning and community leadership.
There’s wider community benefits too. Alison sees how residents look forward to weekly activities, friendly faces and opportunities to connect. Santhosh describes volunteers as a bridge between tenants, housing officers and the wider association, helping residents feel more comfortable raising issues and strengthening trust.
Together, volunteers help Southside Housing Association reach further into the community, build stronger relationships and respond to local needs.
Alison and Santhosh’s stories show that volunteering is not only about giving time; it is about building confidence, connection and community capacity. With continued support and more volunteers, community activities can grow, helping more residents feel included, listened to and supported.