What is it like to volunteer at a care home?

Enjoying a chat during a flower-making workshop

We asked one of our recent volunteers to tell us about their experience at St Anne's.

Joanna volunteered at St Anne's Nursing Home in our activities and wellbeing team, alongside her busy life as a student at the University of Southampton.

She joined in with activities, took part in trips and offered friendly company for our residents during her time as a volunteer.

For the nursing home, this is valued and appreciated. Even things as simple as ordinary, friendly conversation can make a big difference, and we are grateful to Joanna and volunteers like her for coming and offering their time.

For Joanna, volunteering was a way to give her time to something worthwhile in the community. At the same time she was able to build experience in a care setting, interacting with older adults, including those living with dementia.

Is there a particular moment that stayed with you?

"I sang Mamma Mia by ABBA, and everyone was singing and dancing along. One resident absolutely loved ABBA, and seeing how much joy it brought everyone was so special. At the end, everyone was asking for more songs. It was such a lovely moment that I'll always remember."

Joanna also took part in St Anne's Nursing Home's "Olympic Games", which involved a volleyball net being put up in our lounge. She reflected happily on the event: "Everyone was participating, everyone was smiling."

Between helping out with organised activities, Joanna also helped with flower arranging, painted nails and sat and talked with residents, including those who are less physically active.

What will you take away from the experience?

"I met so many wonderful people and learned so much from the residents through their stories, life experiences and advice.

"What surprised me most was how much the little things mattered, whether it was chatting, painting their nails or simply spending time together.

"Those small moments meant so much to them, and seeing how happy they were each time I visited made the experience incredibly special."

Did volunteering at St Anne's change how you think about care?

"It gave me a huge appreciation for the dedication, compassion and hard work of carers and nurses. They do so much every day to support the residents, often in ways that go unnoticed.

"I saw how much effort goes into creating a warm, welcoming environment where residents are genuinely cared for and encouraged to enjoy daily activities."

What advice do you have to others who are thinking about volunteering in a care home?

"I'd say go for it. It's an amazing opportunity, not only to gain valuable experience but also to make a real difference in someone's day. You'll meet incredible people, hear fascinating stories and develop skills that stay with you long after you've finished volunteering. It's one of the most rewarding things I've done."

What are your next steps in life, and has anything you learned from volunteering helped in your career?

"My next step is completing a PGCE in Primary Education. Volunteering at St Anne's has taught me patience, empathy and the importance of understanding each person's individual needs and interests. Those are skills I'll carry with me into teaching, where building positive relationships and supporting every individual is just as important."

Thank you, Joanna, for the time and warmth you gave us. Keep singing ABBA, and we wish you every success in the classroom!

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Volunteering at St Annes Nursing Home

Volunteers join our wellbeing team to help with activities and spend time with residents. We provide a full induction, and you'll always be alongside our staff. We welcome volunteers from all ages, cultures and abilities.

To find out more please email info@stannesnursing.co.uk and ask about volunteering.