At Action for Family Carers, our volunteers make a real difference to the lives of unpaid carers and the people they support. We’re proud to celebrate their dedication and grateful to Essex-based business Wilkin & Sons, makers of the famous Tiptree Jams, for recognising our long-service volunteers with a special treat.
The family business generously donated gift vouchers for our volunteers to enjoy at its Tiptree Tea Rooms. We invited three of our long-standing volunteers to join us at our Annual General Meeting (AGM), where we recognised their incredible commitment to the charity.
Between them, Pat, Angela and Alison have dedicated an amazing 24 years of service to supporting people across Essex.
Making a difference through volunteering
Pat and Angela have volunteered at our Maldon Day Centre for more than 16 years between them, helping us provide a welcoming and supportive environment for older people, including those living with dementia and memory loss.
Pat shared what volunteering means to her:
“Volunteering at the day centre can be challenging, as some of our clients have dementia and memory loss, but the gratitude I feel from their loved ones makes it all worthwhile. I can see it in their faces when they drop off or pick up. They know the person they care for will be safe.”
Pat’s words highlight the difference volunteers make, not only to the people they spend time with, but also to the families who rely on our services. Knowing a loved one is safe, cared for and enjoying their time at the day centre can give family carers valuable peace of mind.
Alison has also made a lasting contribution, volunteering as a befriender for nine years. By offering companionship and a friendly face, she helps people feel less alone and reminds us how even small acts of kindness can have a lasting impact.
Thank you to Wilkin & Sons
We were delighted to welcome Liz from Wilkin & Sons to our AGM to present the gift vouchers and help us celebrate our volunteers’ dedication.
This thoughtful initiative will recognise all Action for Family Carers volunteers who have given more than three years of service to the charity. We hope the vouchers provide a well-deserved opportunity to relax and enjoy a treat at the Tiptree Tea Rooms.
We’re incredibly grateful to Wilkin & Sons for supporting this initiative and, above all, proud of the many dedicated volunteers who work alongside our staff across our services.
Could you volunteer with Action for Family Carers?
Volunteering is a rewarding way to make a difference in your local community. Whether you have a little time to spare or want to make a regular commitment, there are opportunities to suit different interests and availability.
Our volunteers support people in many ways, including helping at young carer clubs, welcoming people at carer support groups and making someone feel at home over a cup of tea.
You don’t need to change the world in a day. Sometimes, simply being there for someone can make all the difference.
Find out more about our current opportunities and how you could help support unpaid carers and their families.
Explore volunteering opportunities with Action for Family Carers
