My first three months volunteering at SLC

Please note: this post is 93 months old and The Cares Family is no longer operational. This post is shared for information only

I've wanted to do some volunteering for a while but struggled because I do shift work and can't commit to regular slots. When I read about South London Cares in Time Out it seemed perfect: the calendar of events is great for fitting in around the irregular hours of my job, and I wanted to get to know older people in my community. 

Since I started coming a few months ago I've been to a range of social clubs: technology sessions, pub socials, dancing and cinema. There's such a huge variety of things to sign up for right on my doorstep that I'm spoilt for choice most months. 

I was a bit nervous going to my first dance group, I'd never done anything like it before and am not very well coordinated. But everyone was so laid back and was just there to have a good time – it's now one of my favourite sessions. By the end of the class I'd made mates, mastered all the steps with everyone else and had a bit of a workout. The pub meet up was also really good fun, it felt just like an evening out with friends. 

Even after a long, stressful day at work I always come away from social clubs feeling great. The neighbours I've met are all so energetic and enthusiastic. I spend most of the time laughing and joking around. It has been great seeing the same faces, really getting to know my neighbours and learning about the incredible lives they've led. 

One of my favourite things has been hearing stories about how London used to be and how much our city has changed. Recognising people in the street is another highlight and makes me properly feel like part of a community. 

When I started coming I thought I would be helping other people but didn't realise just how much fun it would be for me.