Volunteering is a great way to help people feel involved with community action, but it is also beneficial for mental health too

Meet Phoebe Coles, Volunteering Coordinator at Guide Dogs (Hertfordshire, Bedfordshire and Essex- including Redbridge & Welwyn)

Did your journey to working for Guide Dogs begin as a volunteer? If so, how?

I was heavily involved in volunteering prior to joining Guide Dogs, but not as a Guide Dogs volunteer. I volunteered previously in Cyprus, leading on projects focusing on women’s rights and refugee rights issues. My interest in working for Guide Dogs started during an internship at the UK Parliament when I joined a Guide Dogs campaigns event about safe pavements. From that day, I researched more about the charity and the rest is history!

What is the thing you enjoy the most about working as a Volunteer Manager & why?

I find it incredibly rewarding supporting volunteers, the thing I enjoy the most is helping volunteers feel that they are a part of a community and less isolated since the pandemic. Volunteering is a great way to help people feel involved with community action, but it is also beneficial for mental health too. This Volunteers Week marks me being with Guide Dogs for one year, and it has flown by. I am so honored to work for such an incredible charity with brilliant and enthusiastic volunteers and staff. If you are interested in joining our Guide Dogs family, please check out our website and search for volunteer roles in your area: https://www.guidedogs.org.uk/. No matter your background, skills, and interests, there is something for everyone!