How we helped Abdullah volunteer

When Abdullah registered with the Stepping Stones Project, he was at a very low ebb in his life. Depression, combined with other health issues had contributed to a sense of worthlessness and feeling he had nothing to offer to others. Since joining the programme and beginning his volunteer placement Abdullah has made lots of positive changes in his life.

'When I first met Frances at the Stepping Stones Project, it was at a very difficult time for me, I had problems with my health and felt very isolated. But I soon started volunteering at the Notting Hill branch of Oxfam. I arranged to help out once a week, because I was unsure that volunteering was right for me.

Slowly, things changed and I began to really enjoy going to the shop. I started to assist Louise in the storeroom and became used to the routine. I do so many different things, sorting through new items, packing the clothes for different branches and selecting items that are sent to Africa. Because I enjoy the work, I now volunteer three times a week. Our manager, Louise, is great and she and the other volunteers have helped me out a lot. We are a brilliant team!

During this time, I have completed a detox programme and have stopped drinking and smoking. This has also given me a new lease of life and are major achievements for me. I enjoy helping new volunteers who join the shop and am going to help the new Stepping Stones Volunteers settle in when they join us. I have received a certificate for ‘time well spent’ in my volunteering and I can honestly say it has been. I love my job.'

We can help you volunteer too

If you are not sure about volunteering why don't you call us and speak to a member of the team about how you can volunteer and the types of volunteering roles you can take part in.

Call 020 8960 3722 and find out more about volunteering.