Read Richard’s story of how he found a new sense of purpose through volunteering at the Age UK Furniture Warehouse.
In celebration of Volunteers Day, we’ve invited some of our dedicated volunteers to share their personal experiences and insights about volunteering.
We hope that by hearing from them, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the impact volunteering has, not just on the community, but on the volunteers themselves.
Richard Rollings – Gladstone St Furniture Warehouse for Age UK
Richard has been volunteering at the Age UK Furniture Warehouse for 13 months, and it has been a truly fulfilling experience for him. After the loss of his wife, he was looking for something that would give him purpose and help him get out of the house. Volunteering at the warehouse has provided both.
For Richard, the work is rewarding, but it’s the people that make the real difference. The staff and fellow volunteers have become like family, always there with support and a listening ear when needed. The strong sense of community has helped him through difficult times, and he finds great satisfaction in knowing the work they do helps others in the community.
“I would wholeheartedly encourage anyone, whether you’re retired or just looking for something meaningful to do, to join our team at Age UK. Volunteering is not just about the work – it’s about the connections you make, the lives you touch, and the purpose you find along the way. It’s given me so much more than I ever imagined. If you’re looking for a way to give back while also gaining a sense of community, this is the place to be.”