Noreen supported the finance team at Talkback UK with their invoicing processes. She was one of the first volunteers to use Volunteer Bucks.
How did you find out about Volunteer Bucks and the volunteering opportunity?
I had been using the Volunteer Matching Service since September 2023 and made the switch over to Volunteer Bucks when the platform became available. The transition was easy; I didn't have to do anything except register myself.
Finding my volunteering role was simple too - the platform and interface are very user-friendly. Roles are easy to search for and all the information you need is readily available. I applied in September, and after the interview and checks I was able to start the role in the same month.
What was your volunteer role and what did it involve?
My role with Talkback UK was the Accounts and Finance Support volunteer. This involved helping the finance team to upload and pay invoices for the charity.
I think I joined the organisation at a pivotal time. They had an audit coming up, so I was able to facilitate clearing up the backlog of work.
Why do you volunteer?
I had been off work for several years to focus on raising my children. Volunteering is a great way for me to gain experience and get back into work.
What attracted you to this role?
There were a couple of reasons why I chose this role. Firstly, I was attracted to the mission and work of Talkback UK. They offer great support to autistic people and getting them back into the mainstream world.
Secondly, because I had previously worked as an office administrator in a college for 6 years, so it was a familiar environment to ease myself back into. I wanted to work in the background for a worthwhile cause, and this was a great way to do it.
What were the best and most challanging parts of this role?
For me, the part I enjoyed most was learning something new and learning what goes on behind the scenes for a charity.
There wasn't anything too challenging, but the systems and processes did take some time to get used to. Every organisation does things their own way, so it did take some time to learn the ropes.
Would you recommend volunteering and if so, why?
Yes, definitely! I believe what you give back to society with any role, especially in a charity like this, makes volunteering worthwhile. I would recommend to everyone to volunteer in whatever field they're interested in if they are looking for a job or if they have any time on the side.
I'm in a paid role now which volunteering helped me get to. When I left, I as even able to recommend my friend who took over the role.