My NSPCC story

As a childline volunteer I guess about 70% of the calls that come through that are live chats. Young people prefer that medium, don't they now? It's easy to see why - texting or chatting online can be a lot less intimidating than talking on the phone or face to face.

Becoming a volunteer is a two-way process, so I decided to go find out more about it. It might be for me, it might not. But I wanted to give it a try, to see if I could help make a difference in someone's life.

I started out doing one shift a week and helping out with recruitment. It wasn't always easy, but I found that I enjoyed the work and the people I was working with. The best thing about volunteering is that feeling I am making a difference to a young person. Even if it's just for a little while, I can help them feel heard and understood.

Over time, I've learned a lot from my supervisors and other volunteer counsellors. I've gained other skills that I didn't have before, like how to handle difficult situations and how to communicate effectively with young people.

There have been some tough moments, but I always remind myself that I'm here to help. When I see a young person start to open up and share their struggles, it's an amazing feeling. Knowing that I've been a part of their journey and that I've helped them in some small way is what keeps me coming back.

Volunteering has been a fulfilling experience for me, and I'm grateful for the opportunity to make a positive impact in the lives of young people. If you're thinking about volunteering, I would encourage you to give it a try. It might just change your life - and the lives of those you help - in ways you never expected.