Steve, Enrych volunteer

Steve combined his favourite hobby with volunteering and now helps run Enrych’s photography group working with adults with disabilities.

What do you do? I work with adults with disabilities, mainly head injuries. We go out twice a month, take photos and then review and discuss what we’ve taken the following week.

Why did you want to volunteer? It wasn’t something which I had even considered when I was working full-time; however, when I was made redundant after a 40-year career in woodworking, I had more time on my hands. Knowing I was passionate about photography, my Job Centre coach suggested I volunteer and put me in touch with Enrych. The rest is history.

What are the best bits about volunteering? It’s very rewarding for me; some of the pictures they take are really humbling. The group have improved ten-fold and are now taking lovely pictures.

What have you gained from your volunteer role? It has led to a career change for me; I’m now a professional photographer and it’s given me the confidence to stand up in front of people and I now mentor other students.

Would you recommend volunteering? Definitely. If you’re passionate about a hobby there is someone out there who shares your passion but could benefit from your help in doing it.

For more information on volunteering for Enrych, please see their website: Enrych

Updated on July 30, 2019

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Image courtesy of St Francis's Children Society