Post | November 2022 | For volunteers | 1 min read

Esther's story

Written by

Esther Checketts is Volunteer Coordinator for Taunton Welcomes Refugees, a charity which offers support and friendship to those who have fled war and persecution.

Esther is a volunteer herself and has the important role of supporting new volunteers as they join the organisation.

“My role means I am the first point of contact with potential new volunteers, answering phone and email enquiries seeing them through the training process.

“I get to meet and chat with some really lovely and interesting people, and I really enjoy seeing volunteers thrive and develop in their role. I firmly believe that our volunteers get as much, if not sometimes more out of their work than the refugees we support.

“It is extremely fulfilling and a constant learning curve.

“I am also a Trustee and I really enjoy working with and getting to know my fellow board members. They are an eclectic and interesting group of people and there is never a dull moment!”

Lynne Mayers, deputy Chair of the Board of Trustees explains:

“Esther is our 'front of house' person; usually the one to make first contact with people in great need - and with new volunteers. She is the encouraging person at the end of the phone or sending an email - and the welcoming smile in a first encounter.

All of these qualities are crucial to building ongoing relationships with those we work with. Nothing is too much trouble for her, and she is a star!”

If Esther's story has inspired you to get involved in volunteering, click on the link below.

I want to volunteer

Celebrating the power of volunteering in Somerset

| For volunteers

Inspiring speakers, incredible insights "Volunteering isn’t just about giving – it’s about connecting, learning, and receiving too.” These powerful words echoed through the room at our Celebration of Volunteering in Somerset event in Bridgwater on Thursday 2 October, where volunteers and organisations from across the county came together to honour the incredible impact of volunteering. The Lord-Lieutenant of Somerset, Mohammed Saddiq, described volunteers as “the Architects of Hope” – a moving tribute to the quiet, transformative work they do every day. The event was a heartfelt celebration of the thousands of individuals who help build stronger, fairer communities across Somerset. It was also a chance to explore the evolving Vision for Volunteering – a new approach designed to make it easier for everyone to create lasting change. We were privileged to welcome inspiring speakers including Amanda Naylor OBE, Gethyn Williams, and Ruth Buchanan Leonard. Amanda reminded us that “volunteering is a quiet rebellion against the idea that one person can’t make a difference” – a sentiment that resonated deeply throughout the day. Stories shared by volunteers and charity workers brought both insight and emotion, reminding us why volunteering truly matters. You can watch the video here . Key takeaways included: Volunteers are the architects of hope, driving social justice and community power True change happens when communities lead – not when they’re asked to fit into pre-made models Giving power to communities doesn’t diminish organisations – it multiplies impact One attendee said: “ It was a powerful reminder of the impact volunteering has, not just for the community and those who benefit from the services, but for the volunteers themselves. ” We’re now working to shape the next iteration of the Vision. Interested in helping shape the roadmap? Click the button below to volunteer for our Working Group.

Photograph of Anthony, sat down, smiling at camera.

Uncovering the past: Anthony's story

| For volunteers

"To be involved with literally uncovering the past is something that I will always be grateful for."

Photograph of Kate packing bags of food.

Nourishing communities: Kate's story

| For volunteers

"It’s good to know that what you're doing is having a direct impact on people's lives."

Post | November 2022 | For volunteers | 1 min read

Esther's story

Written by

Laura Bazley

Esther Checketts is Volunteer Coordinator for Taunton Welcomes Refugees, a charity which offers support and friendship to those who have fled war and persecution.

Esther is a volunteer herself and has the important role of supporting new volunteers as they join the organisation.

“My role means I am the first point of contact with potential new volunteers, answering phone and email enquiries seeing them through the training process.

“It is extremely fulfilling and a constant learning curve.

“I am also a Trustee and I really enjoy working with and getting to know my fellow board members. They are an eclectic and interesting group of people and there is never a dull moment!”

Lynne Mayers, deputy Chair of the Board of Trustees explains:

All of these qualities are crucial to building ongoing relationships with those we work with. Nothing is too much trouble for her, and she is a star!”

If Esther's story has inspired you to get involved in volunteering, click on the link below.

I want to volunteer