At Starting Point, we believe volunteering is more than just giving time; it’s about creating opportunities for people to reconnect, build confidence, and find purpose. Every volunteer brings their own skills and experiences, and in return, we hope they gain something just as valuable: a sense of achievement, growth, and belonging.

One of our inspiring volunteers, Rob, shared how becoming a Digital Champion has made a real difference in his life.

Rob had been out of work for a while when a social prescriber at Viaduct Care encouraged him to try volunteering as a way to boost his confidence. With over 20 years of experience in IT, the Digital Champion role felt like a natural fit.

But for Rob, it wasn’t just about using his technical skills – it was about reconnecting with people and breaking habits that had built up during his time at home.

“It’s been really great meeting new people, getting myself used to going out there and doing something, instead of just bobbing about at home between meals and waiting for the school run.”

Through volunteering, Rob rediscovered a sense of purpose and structure that had been missing. Supporting others with digital skills not only helped those he worked with, but also gave Rob the satisfaction of knowing he had achieved something meaningful each day.

“Volunteering as a Digital Champion has given me purpose and structure, it’s boosted my confidence, and I feel some satisfaction. I can say ‘I achieved something today’ – which I used to get from being at work.”

Rob’s experience has also strengthened his CV, giving him something positive to share at interviews. His career coach has been hugely supportive, and completing our Starting Point employment course fitted perfectly alongside the volunteering and other support he’s received.

“As my career coach says, gaps in your CV aren’t good, so this has finally given me something to fill in that gap and talk about at interviews. My career coach has been so positive about my volunteering.”

Rob’s journey shows how volunteering can transform lives – providing confidence, connection, and new opportunities. For him, it’s not just about helping others with digital challenges; it’s about feeling proud at the end of each day.

“I love it when I’ve volunteered, and I know when I go to bed I can say, yes, I did some good today.”

Rob’s story is just one example of the impact our volunteers make – and the difference volunteering makes for them in return. By opening doors to opportunities, we’re helping people gain skills, confidence, and purpose while creating positive change in the community.

At our organisation, we don’t just offer volunteering roles – we create pathways for people to grow, connect, and thrive.