As part of Volunteers Week 2019, we’re putting up profiles of some of our volunteers. We’ve already featured Annalie and Angela already, but let’s hear from Simon and Shyam, who have been volunteering for different lengths of time.

Simon:

I think I’ve been volunteering for Barnet Mencap for about 4 years, on reception. I like talking to people and I think I’ve got better since I started. I’m now familiar with people when they ring or come to the door.  I also enjoy doing the shredding, getting the door and doing other office jobs.

When I’m not volunteering I enjoy winding people up. I have two support sessions each week from Barnet Mencap, and I have done for years. I live in one of Barnet Mencap’s houses and I get on well with my housemates.

I like cycling at Finsbury Park and at Arsenal’s stadium with Pedal Power, as well as going out with friends for meals, shopping – and winding them up!

I also volunteer at Edgware Hospital as a Porter when needed, and have done since I was 18, and I have also volunteered at the Marie Foster centre.

In the future, I’d like to do more volunteering – and win lots of money!

Shyam:

I’ve only been volunteering with Barnet Mencap for 4 weeks, learning the ropes sitting next to Simon.  I also volunteer at St Joseph’s, on reception, and I have for 4 or 5 years.  I’m happy and confident there, and there are lots of nice people.  I also do filing there, giving out badges, taking money for activities and taking post to other offices.

I have volunteered in a charity shop before as well. I volunteer every day of the week, so I’m very busy! At the weekends I like to spend time at my aunt’s house, as I’m very close with my family. I also like to watch wrestling in my free time.

For more info on Volunteering, head to our Volunteering page.