Joanna's story

After arriving in the UK from Ukraine in 2022, Iryna wanted to give back to the community in Frome that had supported her and found the perfect way to do that was through volunteering. "When I arrived in this country, I was deeply touched by the support that was offered to us. I wanted to express my gratitude and be helpful in some way." Iryna joined the Artists in Dialogue project , connecting artists based in Somerset and Ukraine. In her role as an interpreter and translator, she helps overcome language barriers and raise awareness about the war. "I act as a bridge between the parties, enabling effective communication. I interpret during Zoom calls and translate all email correspondence as well as texts written on the Conceptboard, the platform used for displaying the artworks. "I am proud to be part of this project, and I’m grateful that there are people who keep the war in Ukraine in the conscience of local residents.” She also became part of the Nifty Needle group, whose handmade items support people helped by the Fair Frome food bank. Through volunteering, she found not only a way to help others, but also a sense of connection, purpose and a positive boost to her wellbeing. "What I discovered when I joined the group is that a hobby can be incredibly beneficial for my mental health. It has a therapeutic effect. "Now I encourage people who experience anxiety or have mental health related challenges to find something they enjoy doing, because they will see how helpful it can be for their wellbeing. "As a displaced person and a Welcome Hub manager supporting other displaced people, I find that volunteering can be very beneficial. It’s a great way to integrate into the local community, develop communication skills, improve English, gain new skills, and have a positive impact on mental health and wellbeing. "Volunteering is about kindness and caring for others. We live in very worrying times, when values can be easily undermined and many important things are disregarded. If people want to live in a truly civilised society, it must be a society built on values. " If Iryna'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.

“Coming here gives me friendly company…" John, who attends the Warm Welcome at the Crispin Community Centre in Street, explains. He continues: "It’s a privilege that Street has this facility. I have met new people here and now we go on day trips together. I really enjoy chatting to all the people that come in for coffee.” This is Warm Welcome Week and with another cold snap forecast for Somerset, warm spaces offer a comfortable place to sit, enjoy a hot drink and spend time with others in a friendly, inclusive environment. They are open to all, and people visit for a variety of reasons. For many, it’s about more than just warmth, it’s a chance to build friendships, connections and a sense of belonging. Michaela, who runs Crispin Community Centre, explains why their space attracts many people from the town and surrounding areas: “We have a host of wonderful volunteers who happily give their time to make food, drinks and make everyone feel welcome and valued. “The outcome is truly heart-warming, a room full of people chatting and enjoying something hot to eat or drink on a cold wet day, leaving brighter than when they arrived means the world to everyone involved." “We love being able to help out so that people have a warm and welcoming space to gather and socialise," says one of the Crispin volunteers. "It's especially important as so many places have closed down in our area and the weather means they cannot get together outside.” Laura Bazley, who oversees Warm Welcome for Spark Somerset, explains: “These spaces are about so much more than warmth; they’re about kindness, community and support. They help ensure no one has to feel isolated, providing a lifeline to many, and are often made possible thanks to dedicated volunteers.” Want to make a difference in your community? Find the perfect role for you by clicking the link below.

Prickles Hedgehog Rescue , a grassroots charity dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation, and release of hedgehogs across Somerset, had a strong mission and committed volunteers, but needed support to sharpen their business planning, strengthen their organisational foundation, and grow for greater impact. Recognising this, Prickles joined the Spark Somerset SkillShare programme , which connects corporate groups, and larger charities with VCFSE organisations needing support. The programme acts as a broker, enabling flexible contributions of expertise, resources, or time and matching them to local charities based on their specific needs. Nik Harwood from Young Somerset volunteered via SkillShare to support Prickles with business planning. He said: “I’ve really enjoyed being part of Spark Somerset’s SkillShare programme, it’s been great to bring my experience and knowledge to support another charity with their business development journey. Seeing their ideas grow and their confidence build has been really inspiring.” Jules from Prickles Hedgehog Rescue added: “Working with Spark Somerset’s SkillShare and Nik from Young Somerset has transformed our outlook. We now have a roadmap for the future, and we feel stronger, clearer and more confident in what we can achieve.” For charities like Prickles, everyday demands often leave little space for stepping back and planning. The SkillShare programme provides access to strategic support that might otherwise be out of reach. Meanwhile, corporate groups and larger charities can use their skills and resources to make a real difference locally, gain fresh insight into the voluntary sector, and build meaningful community partnerships. Funding is available for larger charities who want to share their expertise with smaller charities to ensure that organisations can dedicate time, resources, and staff support without stretching their own capacity. The SkillShare project has also teamed up with Somerset Chamber of Commerce to reach more corporate partners, particularly related to their corporate and social responsibility ambitions. Whether you are giving your skills or seeking support, fill out the SkillShare form to get involved today.