Volunteers' Week: Aimee

Please note: this post is 66 months old and The Cares Family is no longer operational. This post is shared for information only

I have lived in North London for 7 years, and since arriving it has always felt like home because there is a real strong sense of community. I heard about North London Cares a few years ago and was interested, but never took it any further. Then in January, I had some more spare time on my hands and decided to join as a volunteer.

It is honestly one of the best things I have ever done for myself. What has surprised me the most, is how much I get out of it! I love meeting the older neighbours, learning about London, and their life stories – everyone always has such a diverse and interesting backgrounds, and it is really humbling. I’m honoured to be even more involved with the community I love – plus, I always have such a laugh!

The North London Cares team are friendly, welcoming and interesting people, as are the other volunteers I have met at social clubs. It has been great to meet younger people, like myself, who live locally.

The social clubs in action are fun, easy going and interesting. One of my favourites is the Creative Writing Course ran by Francesca who is a published author which makes for a real in-depth and structured club. I recommend it to anyone interested in writing! I also love the Marchmont Film Club on a Monday in Bloomsbury. I find that it is so nice to finish work, and join the older neighbours for a cup of tea and a chat, and then watch a film together – Monday night bliss!

I always leave with a nice feeling – that I have done something meaningful for my wider community and I’m building connections with people I would have never normally encountered.

If you are new to London and would like to broaden your network of people, and your sense of community, or you are interested in helping others, I cannot recommend North London Cares enough! As someone who has been volunteering for a few months now, I have really enjoyed getting to know my new friends, as the older neighbours recognise the friendships and connections we have built together.