Alison’s volunteer story

Alison Noyes: Community/Info Hub Volunteer

I have moved from art college to an English degree, to Italy, to teaching literature, to commercial property law, to a small B&B, plus various volunteering roles, and now back to art.  I am a Londoner but have also lived in Maidstone, Florence, Dungeness and since last May, Hastings.

Because of the war in Ukraine I intended to host Ukrainians – or other refugees - in my new house but found it was too small.  A friend of mine told me about HEART instead so I emailed them.

I wanted to do a different type of volunteering (previously teaching, newsletters, with animals) and to be of some help to others less advantaged than me.

I do a few volunteering roles at HEART. Chatting at the fortnightly “Get Chatting sessions” in the Old Town.

I help people once a week with information at the Info Hub, and sometimes just listening to those wanting to offload problems. 

I have also driven a woman to hospital and back and helped someone pack before  moving in to a residential home.

Can you tell us about an aspect of volunteering that you’ve enjoyed?

I love chatting!  I'm also good at finding out and disseminating information.  Gaining an insight into how other people live.  Hearing people's stories.

What do you feel you have gained from volunteering for HEART?

Feeling useful.  Feeling part of Hastings.  Meeting new people.

Tell us about any experiences you’ve had and/or people you have met through volunteering?

Great, friendly, supportive colleagues.  The funny moments are too many to list!  Being moved by people's stories.  Being enraged by governmental failure adequately to support needy or even partly needy people.

 What advice would you give to someone considering getting involved with volunteering for HEART?

A wish to help others, bearing in mind that for the purposes of volunteering their needs override yours.  A new purpose in life.  At least some liking of other people!  Interest in people and information.  Patience.