Our volunteers are such a vital part of the work we do, and we are delighted that two of our youngest enthusiasts have shared their journey with us.

James, a student at Bath Spa University who studies Film, Television and Digital Production got stuck in to our Life Skills Park Life photography project in autumn last year. Life Skills offers creative and practical classes to isolated and vulnerable individuals with a range of mental health issues. James first got involved because he wanted to give back to the city he lives in, and says that the project made a big impression on him.

Watch his video.

Catherine, also a student from Bath Spa University, has been volunteering at our drop-in centre Lifeline on a Saturday morning. Here we provide a hot breakfast and welcoming company to the people who visit.

“As part of my second year Criminology degree I selected the work placement module. I was very keen to develop my understanding surrounding the causes and impacts of ‘living homeless’, in the many forms homelessness can take.

During the winter months I began to notice an increase in homelessness both in Bath and in my hometown in Devon. It is a brutal reality that being made homeless can happen to anyone, and it is hugely important to support people who find themselves in these tricky situations.

On a Saturday morning between 10am – 11.30am the Lifeline Centre provides a breakfast, a time to relax and to socialise, before the day ahead. It is a great way to warm up, catch up and eat well. It has been an eye-opening experience and a complete pleasure to work at the Lifeline Centre. The people who come inspire me to continue my studies, to continue listening and learning.”

A big thank you to James and Catherine for all their efforts.

For current volunteering opportunities please see here.