Volunteers’ Week 2019: Why I volunteer
Volunteering is a great way to gain experience and develop new skills, which is why ex-teacher Lyn and her husband John decided to get involved with all of us at Healthwatch Kent.
Developing new skills
“As an ex-headteacher I first thought I would like to volunteer for a school, but after I spoke to Healthwatch, I decided to try something different.
“Volunteering has been a huge learning curve, it’s like learning a whole new career. But both John and I are now confident at speaking with health commissioners, service providers, clinicians and other local people, because of the skills Healthwatch have helped us develop.
Getting involved in the decision-making
“We are very proud to be part of a group of patients who scrutinise health and social care consultations. What is more rewarding than knowing that your voice can make a difference to how services are developed and improved?”
