Celebrating Edina: A volunteer making a difference

Tell us a bit about yourself and what led you to start volunteering?

Hello all! My name is Edina, and I’m currently volunteering with CNWL NHS Health Charity as a Fundraising and Engagement Volunteer, and with CNWL NHS Foundation Trust as a Step-Down Community Support Volunteer. I’m also completing my BSc in Health and Social Care, which has made me even more passionate about supporting people and understanding how the healthcare service work.

After spending several years as a stay-at-home mom, I felt ready to restart my career and do something meaningful outside the home. I wanted to gain some hands-on admin experience alongside my studies and thought volunteering would be a great way to learn new skills while helping others. When Ania Adams, Volunteer to Career Lead at CNWL NHS Foundation Trust, recommended the Charity, I knew straight away it was the right fit. The Charity’s mission and projects really inspired me, and I felt it was the perfect place to grow both personally and professionally.

What inspired you to volunteer for CNWL NHS Health Charity?

I was really inspired by the charity's missions to support both patients and staff across the Trust. I love that the charity focuses not just on healthcare, but also on wellbeing – from creating calm spaces and gardens to funding projects that make everyday life a bit brighter.

It’s also a very welcoming and forward-thinking organisation, and I wanted to be part of something that celebrates community and kindness. After learning more about the team, I knew I’d found somewhere I could contribute and feel valued.

What kind of things have you been helping with?

In my Fundraising and Engagement role, I help with wide range of tasks – from preparing materials, assembling thank-you packs, and organising stock, to researching engagement ideas and helping with events. I’ve also been learning more about admin processes and supporter care, which has been a great experience for me.

How have you found the experience so far?

It’s been such a rewarding and positive experience! I really enjoy going into the office on Mondays – funny enough, a lot of people don’t like Mondays, but I actually look forward to them because it means I get to go in, see everyone, and feel part of the team. It gives me structure, purpose, and a great start to the week.

The team is so kind and supportive, I’ve learned so much from everyone around me. Volunteering has helped me rebuild my confidence, develop new skills, and feel proud of what I’m doing. It’s shown me that I can balance family life, studying, and meaningful work, which feels amazing.

What have you learned since starting your volunteer role?

I’ve learned so much about teamwork, communication, and organisation. Working with the fundraising and Engagement team has shown me how much effort goes into planning events, building relationships, and keeping everything running smoothly.

I’ve also learned how important empathy and patience is, especially in my community support role, and how powerful it is when people come together to make a difference.

What are you hoping to get out your volunteering experience long-term?

Long-term, I’d love to keep developing my skills and experience within the NHS and Charity sector. Since I’m studying Health and Social Care, volunteering has given me great insight into how different parts of the system work together.

I’m hoping this experience will help me move towards a career where I can keep supporting others, using both my academic knowledge and the real-world experience I’m gaining through CNWL.

What would you say to someone who’s thinking about volunteering?

I’d say, absolutely go for it! Volunteering is a such a beautiful way to give back, meet amazing people, and learn things you’d never pick up anywhere else. You don’t need any special experience, just enthusiasm and kindness.

It’s flexible, supportive, and you really do feel like you’re making a difference, not just for others, but for yourself too. For me, it’s brought confidence, purpose, and so much positivity into my life.