Becka, aged 25, talks about her role as a volunteer at Oasis Hub Oldham.
Becka joined the Oasis Hub Volunteers in 2018 after being introduced through Upturn via the Talent Match Project.
When I joined the Hub I knew no one and initially I was very shy, but I was made to feel welcome and since then all the volunteers and Hub staff have helped and supported me in different ways. We have become a good team.
The first activity I helped with was the Saturday Morning School where I helped prepare and serve the breakfasts for the students, I was also asked to help with the Hub Farm, so I was busy straight away.
I have participated in everything whenever I can. Some examples are:
Volunteer training in face painting, Commando Joes and Safer Food Better Business. I have also taken part in cooking activities including leading my own sessions to share my knowledge of cake decoration.
During the holidays I deliver family activities at Hubabaloo, I serve refreshments and promote volunteering activities at Academy Parents Evenings, volunteer on visits to Oasis Media City and Veg in the Park Allotment.
I have enjoyed everything!
The Hub team have supported me by attending my Groundwork Graduation, and we promote good health and wellbeing by having our own social activities and meeting up to go swimming, which I wouldn’t have done on my own.
As a result of volunteering, I have been involved and gained work related experience with Hub partners such as Mahdlo, IfOldham, CharacterKingdom and Bounceback.
Before becoming a volunteer with Oasis Hub Oldham I didn’t really feel part of the community even though I have lived here all my life. I had not been on benefits long but felt stuck and knew I wanted more.
Now, I am still on benefits but I don’t feel stuck anymore and know I am closer to full time employment. I feel more confident and I have had interviews and trial shifts and feel positive.
Through volunteering I can recognise my own skills and how much more I can achieve. I now feel part of the community and I am giving back and supporting others.
I feel valued and my mum and family are pleased that I am part of something positive.