''I’ve been volunteering at WLM for almost a year now and it’s been such a hugely rewarding experience. Having spotted a leaflet promoting football for the homeless at a local church I thought to myself as a former professional footballer and manager that this would be an ideal opportunity for me to get involved and help out and I’m really pleased that I did.

I’m now volunteering three mornings a week helping out in numerous ways;  from working in the kitchen to manning reception. I am involved in organising appointments for the clients to meet with project workers or nurses, dentists and opticians.  Whilst these are all very practical things the most enjoyment I get is just sitting with our clients and chatting about their stories.  I have found that everyone needs a good talk and a good listener. 

One of the main issues with being homeless is the total lack of socialising, so I set up a football group so clients can meet up fortnightly for a kick about at a local 3G pitch which is brilliant seeing everyone enjoying themselves and building bonds together with the fabulous staff at WLM Seymour Place.

I am really pleased to say that a couple of the football group have now found themselves in full-time employment with one of them claiming that being involved in the football gave him a real sense of confidence,  pride and normality which helped him get him into employment! 

Although I’m sad he no longer joins in our football sessions it gives me huge pride to see him doing so well for himself and to know I played a very small part in helping him back on his feet. WLM is an amazing organisation and the staff are incredible and I’m delighted to be a part of it.'

Paul Peschisolido, WLM Seymour Place volunteer

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'I have been volunteering at WLM The Haven for about 6 months. I heard about the work WLM does there helping
people who went through rough times, giving them a home and offering the support they need and wanted to offer some of my time.

I am finding the interaction with the residents truly enriching, and I hope it goes both ways. I would encourage anyone who is considering volunteering at WLM The Haven, both the residents and the staff are lovely, and make you feel welcome straight away.'

Valérian Turbé, WLM The Haven volunteer

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'I have been volunteering for WLM The Haven since May 2017 as an arts and crafts
facilitator. I initially wanted to volunteer to help me figure out whether I wanted to become a counsellor or not and what area of counselling I wanted to go in to. I would never have dreamed that it would give me so much more. 

Volunteering at WLM The Haven has given me so much more than any paid job or course. I have been out of my comfort zone, learnt to be completely present and connected with the clients and my relationships with them has become stronger as a result.

It has helped my confidence and given me valuable experience and being around like-minded volunteers and staff feels like having an extra family. I would say if you can then apply to volunteer! there is a different kind of satisfaction you get after you finish each shift that other jobs don't give you.'

Vishti Sarjoo, WLM The Haven volunteer

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'I have been volunteering at WLM The Haven for 3 years after writing to ask if the residents would be interested in taking part in an art project I run. I wanted to involve the residents in Write-London as I know there are few organisations or activities that offer everyone a chance to express themselves via the written word.

In the years since I have helped several of the residents write up some of their stories and to share those stories both within the Haven and the wider community and hosted an art exhibition of one resident's artwork at a gallery in Islington.'

Tom Mallender, WLM The Haven volunteer

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The more we give, the happier we feel! Volunteering increases self-confidence. You are doing good for others and the community, which provides a natural sense of accomplishment. Your role as a volunteer can also give you a sense of pride and identity. Did you know volunteering is an excellent way to boost your career prospects as well?

Volunteer for WLM