Finding home through volunteering: Valentyna’s Story

Valentyna’s journey to the UK began under difficult circumstances. Forced to leave Ukraine because of the war, she arrived in a new country facing uncertainty, loss, and the challenge of starting again. Yet through that experience, she rediscovered something that had always been part of her life: the power of volunteering.

"Volunteering has always been part of who I am. I grew up in a family where helping others was a natural value. My parents led by example, and later my husband and I were fortunate to be in a position where we could support people both financially and practically. But my own journey as a forced migrant from Ukraine during the war gave this meaning a much deeper, more personal dimension.

"When I arrived in the UK, the first people who met us with kindness and support were volunteers. In that moment, I truly understood how even small acts of care can restore dignity, hope, and strength. For me volunteering is not just something I do, it is who I am. It is a quiet way of giving back the kindness that once held me up.

"At the Welcome Hub in Yeovil, my role is to support families as they adjust to life in the UK. I began by helping with translation when official Interpreting support ended, especially for elderly people who spoke little or no English. I also assist with practical matters – such as completing forms and documents, and helping people understand systems that can feel overwhelming sometimes. Thanks to my education and experience, I can guide people through these processes clearly and calmly.

"The Hub is often very busy, and many people need assistance with documents and applications, which can be complex and time-consuming. Helping with translation and these practical tasks, I’ve eased communication and reduced delays.

"Volunteering has given me a true sense of home here in the UK. I felt valued, connected, and part of community, and it has brought me new friends and meaningful connections. I also developed my own skills and knowledge by navigating complex information and helping others with practical tasks.

"Through helping others, I began to feel a deeper warmth and fullness returning to my own life. I didn’t expect that such simple acts could bring such profound change, easing the pain and longing for my home, my family, and the life I left behind in Ukraine.  

"I would recommend trying volunteering because it is truly worth it. You never know what experiences, connections, or personal growth wait for you. Volunteering has brought me countless blessings and introduced me to wonderful, inspiring people.

"Volunteering has also greatly benefited my career. Through volunteering at the Help Chain and Welcome Hub, I received several job offers, and I chose to join the very organisation where I had been volunteering, and now I have a job I truly love. It allows me to continue helping others, while also gaining professional experience and working with amazing teams and supportive managers."

Vicki Pritchard, Joint Programme Lead & Welcome Hub Manager from the hub commented:

"Valentyna has bought a different and vibrant dynamic to our Welcome Hub. Her skill set along with her personality and relationship with the Ukrainian community benefits us as a team and the people that are guests of The Welcome Hub."

Valentyna’s story is a reminder that volunteering can transform lives, not only for people who receive help, but also for those who give it. For her, it provided opportunities for personal growth, new friends and even employment, all of which have led to a new a new chapter of belonging, purpose, and community.

If Valentyna’s story has inspired you and you’d like to make a difference in your community, click the link below to find out how you can get involved.