Meet Charlotte Lane, the Volunteer Coordinator for Gloucestershire Young Carers. In this post, you’ll get to know more about Charlotte’s role and volunteering.

What does a typical day look like in your role as Volunteer Coordinator?

As Volunteer Coordinator, no two days are the same. A typical day might involve speaking with people who are interested in volunteering, organising training sessions, or supporting our current volunteers to make sure they feel confident in their roles. I also work closely with colleagues across the organisation to plan activities and ensure we have volunteers in place to help support young carers across the county.

What difference do volunteers make to the people you support?

Volunteers make a huge difference to the young people we support. Their time, energy, and encouragement help create experiences that young carers may not otherwise have. Whether they are helping at activities, offering a listening ear, or simply being a positive presence, volunteers help young carers feel valued, understood, and able to just be themselves.

What are the biggest challenges in recruiting volunteers?

One of the biggest challenges in recruiting volunteers is that people often feel they don’t have enough time or worry they don’t have the right skills. The truth is that volunteering can be flexible, and we provide full training and support. What matters most is simply a willingness to get involved and make a difference.

What is the one thing you wish more people knew about volunteering?

Something I wish more people realised is how rewarding volunteering can be. Not only are you helping young carers in your community, but you can also meet new people, learn new skills, and gain valuable experience. Even a small amount of time can have a big impact. You don’t have to be an expert or commit huge amounts of time – just being willing to help can make a real difference.

If you’ve ever thought about volunteering, this could be the perfect opportunity to make a real difference in a young person’s life.

Find out more about Volunteering for Gloucestershire Young Carers.