Meet Ruth

Name:  Ruth

Occupation: retired

How long have you been volunteering with the Service?

“I’ve been volunteering with HIWFRS for about 2 years now. I originally worked in the HIWFRS Schools team years ago for about 7 years. Then I joined Hampshire Constabulary, working in the Control room and then the front desk at Southampton Police Station.”

What inspired you to volunteer with HIWFRS?

“After taking early retirement from a previous job, I didn’t want to be at home all day and I like talking to people and wanted to give something back. My son worked for HIWFRS so he suggested it. I checked the website, sent an email to show my interest and the rest is history.”

Can you tell us more about the Community Volunteer role? What activities have you been involved in?

“My first volunteering experience was at St Mary’s Fire Station helping at a multicultural community day with another volunteer.  At first it was daunting as I didn’t know what to do or say but with my previous experience of working with people, I soon felt more comfortable and used my people skills.

I’ve previously volunteered at the annual Southsea Senior Citizens show, helping out and making lots of sandwiches. It’s a lovely event to be part of.

Last summer, ahead of the Isle of Wight Festival, I was with the highways team and Red Funnel helping out with the drink-aware campaign and I got to speak to lots of interesting people then too.

I’ve previously helped with station open days, community events and preparing resources for the Service’s cooking campaign. Back in February I also supported the recruitment open day at St Mary’s fire station with other volunteers.”

What’s your favourite thing about volunteering?

“As a volunteer I’m an initial point of contact to signpost people elsewhere which feels like much less pressure than previous jobs.

I wanted to come back to HIWFRS as the Service looks after people well and I still know a lot of people here which is nice. I also get treated really well and welcomed at fire stations and HQ.”

Are there any highlights that stand out?

“Getting to interact with different people is one of my favourite parts of the role. The annual Southsea Senior Citizens show has been a real highlight for me, seeing the joy on their faces and how much fun they have at the event is lovely. As volunteers we can pick and choose what we get involved in so it’s really flexible too.”

What would you say to anyone who is thinking about volunteering with HIWFRS?

“I would say ‘yes’ give it a go. Although you don’t get paid, what you get back (in feeling like you’ve helped people and made a difference) is worth much more than that.”