Irene’s Volunteering Journey at Hounslow Reach
29 January 2025
See how Irene's experience as a volunteer transformed her perspective and prepared her for a new career
Hounslow Reach, one of Thames Reach’s services, provides essential advice and support to residents of the London Borough of Hounslow who may face challenges such as mental health issues, physical health needs, or learning disabilities. Irene began volunteering with the service in April, seeking an opportunity to gain new experience. With her background in hospitality, including a role as a waitress at Heathrow Airport, this was an entirely new environment for her.
Encouraged by Aparna, Volunteering Manager at Thames Reach, she committed to volunteering two mornings a week, shadowing support workers and learning about the service. She accompanied them on home visits, supporting people and observing how the team helped them improve their independence and well-being.
The experience was transformative for Irene. “You see a different point of view when you enter someone’s home. People open up to you—it’s very humbling,” she said. The experience gave her valuable insights into the lives of others and a sense of fulfilment from contributing to her community.
Volunteering at Hounslow Reach also prepared Irene for her current role with the NHS Dietitians Team, where she conducts home visits to assess patients’ health and dietary needs. “Without my time at Hounslow Reach, I wouldn’t have felt as confident stepping into this role. The experience gave me the foundation I needed.”
Reflecting on her time at Thames Reach, Irene emphasised the supportive atmosphere. “Everyone was so kind and welcoming, which made the experience even better,” she shared. Inspired by the resilience and dedication of the team, she gained an appreciation for the impact of support services. “They listen to very sad stories every day, yet they can still laugh and stay positive. That was really eye-opening.”
Her advice to anyone considering volunteering? “Definitely do it. It’s humbling, and you gain so much experience and insight. Plus, you meet incredible people who are dedicated to making a difference.”
Although her new role has limited her ability to volunteer, Irene remains grateful for the experience and its influence on her personal and professional growth. “If I could, I would go back. It was such a rewarding experience.”
Irene’s story highlights the profound impact of volunteering—not just for the people we support but for the volunteers themselves. If you’re looking for a meaningful way to give back and grow personally, volunteering with Thames Reach could be the perfect opportunity. Explore our current volunteering roles and take the first step toward making a real difference.