‘I started coming to volunteer at Restore Hope a few years ago – although I’ve been around here pretty much since I was two or three years old.

My family had help from Restore Hope so I already knew loads of people. It started out with little things, I didn’t really think of it as “volunteering” – just helping out where I could. But Restore Hope is like a second home in a way. I grew up around here, so volunteering here made sense.

Now I come as part of the Young Volunteers. When we’re here, we do all sorts. Events are a big one – welcoming people, helping them find where they need to go, that kind of thing. We also help pack vegetable boxes that go out to the local community. It’s mad how quickly they all get done. The whole team shows up, and we get through loads of boxes.

I love volunteering because I get to help people. And it makes me feel proud because I know I’ve made a difference. It’s not just about giving. Sometimes, you realise you’re getting just as much in return.’