As part of our series of volunteering blogs, we are asking some of our volunteers to share their experiences, why they volunteer, and what they see as the benefits. This time, we're pleased to share the story of June Lambert, who started as Administration Volunteer for Essex Wildlife Trust and has since taken on exciting new projects.
Can you tell us a bit about your volunteering at Essex Wildlife Trust?
My name is June Lambert, and I am an Administration Volunteer for Essex Wildlife Trust. I first came along to help a friend working for the Trust. I then became a volunteer and stayed on even after she had moved on. I volunteer twice a week at two different sites, Hanningfield Reservoir Nature Discovery Centre and Abbotts Hall, the Head Office of the Trust. My role is varied but generally; answering the phone, dealing with emails, meeting and greeting visitors. I wanted to get involved in something which would be beneficial to the community. It never occurred to me that there would be a role for me on a nature reserve as a wheelchair user, but I was pleasantly surprised at how much I was able to contribute, being able to combine my skills with working in a wonderful wildlife environment.
My role has expanded as an Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Champion. This includes assessing the accessibility of sites for people with mobility and other issues. As a result, there have been changes which make access easier for people with mobility issues. There are accessible hides, wheelchairs and mobility scooters to hire and clearer paths. This work is still on going.
As part of the local Billericay Dementia Friends Community Committee, I have been instrumental in setting up Hanners Club, which is specifically designed to support people living with dementia in the community, to access the benefits of nature. We are also looking to try and get more of these clubs running across the Trust.
What have you found to be the benefits of volunteering?
Volunteering has all the benefits of working such as networking, interacting, having purpose and being of benefit to the wider community.
What would you say to someone thinking about volunteering with Essex Wildlife Trust?
I would advise anyone to consider volunteering at whatever age. I wish I had discovered its benefits long ago. A fantastic way of meeting new people, honing your skills, learning new things, feeling purposeful and giving back.
