This Volunteers’ Week, we’re celebrating the incredible people who give their time to support stronger, more connected communities. This spotlight is on a volunteer from NeuroBusiness, a neurodivergent-led organisation supporting neurodivergent people to explore employment, entrepreneurship and community life in ways that work for them.

Read the full story below to hear more about their experience.

Tell us a bit about yourself

I’m a Neurodivergent woman. I volunteered with Neurobusiness for a year and became employed through that. I learned everything I could about Neurodiversity and wanted to help people struggling the same way I have – it’s always been a big thing for me, even before I started with Neurobusiness. Other than that, I love music and animals; I have a cat who is like my baby.

How did you get involved?

Ironically, it was through the Jobcentre – I had been unemployed for years at that point. Having already done many employability skills courses, I was feeling quite reluctant when I was offered another one tailored for Neurodivergent people. This one really was different, easier to process and better to engage with. It helped me identify my goals, so Charmaine from Neurobusiness approached me to discuss them and offered an opportunity with them, which seemed perfect. It was nice to volunteer somewhere that actually interested me and made me feel supported and understood.

What difference has volunteering made to you? 

It didn’t take long for my confidence to grow, which had previously been a challenge. Especially going to networking events – I never thought networking would be in my capabilities, but Charmaine encouraged me and I was spurred on by my own passion for the cause. I’ve also gained friends from volunteering, it’s made a huge positive impact.

What difference has volunteering made to your organisation?

Volunteers play a huge part in a small business, its mostly volunteer run. It’s wonderful for the Neurodivergent community because it’s helping to provide what they want. When I joined, there weren’t many volunteers, so I had to learn a lot and had a lot of ideas – it was nice to be the person that Charmaine could bounce ideas off. We come up with things together and share ideas to help the business grow. For example, we’re putting a new volunteer process in place now, which focuses on how we can help volunteers achieve their goals.

What would you say to encourage others to volunteer?

I would say, as difficult as it is, don’t be afraid to try new things. There’s a stigma about volunteering typically being in charity shops, but if you have a hobby or special interest, you can use that.  Nature, crafting, for example, people don’t always think of volunteering that way. Do your research and don’t be afraid to try different things to see what you enjoy.

What 3 words would you use to describe volunteering: 

Fun, positive and giving (something back)!