Volunteers are at the heart of SHARE.
Their time, energy and kindness help us support people experiencing homelessness, families facing financial hardship and those seeking sanctuary after fleeing conflict or persecution.
Every volunteer brings something different. Some give a few hours each week, while others help whenever their circumstances allow. Whatever their role or availability, every contribution matters.
Why volunteer with SHARE / SHAC?
People begin volunteering for many different reasons. Some want to give something back to their community, meet new people or use their skills to support a worthwhile cause. Others are looking for a sense of purpose, a new routine or an opportunity to feel part of something positive.
Volunteering is about helping others, but it can also bring friendship, laughter, confidence and a genuine sense of belonging.
For many members of our team, SHARE has become far more than a place to volunteer. It has become a community.
Liz’s story
Liz and her husband first became involved with SHARE after asking whether we needed help organising the books. That simple question marked the beginning of a very special connection.
“We first got involved at SHARE just after COVID when my husband and I asked if they needed any help organising the books – and that was it!
"Volunteering at SHARE is great. The team are so supportive – more like family. When my hubby passed away SHARE became my lifeline. I love the camaraderie and we spend a lot of time laughing – as well as working, of course!”
Liz, SHARE Volunteer
Liz’s words capture so much of what makes our volunteer community special. It is a place where people work hard and make a real difference, but also where friendships grow, laughter is shared and people support one another through life’s most difficult moments.
Making a difference together
Every task completed by a volunteer contributes to SHARE’s wider work.
Whether someone is helping behind the scenes, supporting the charity shop or offering their time in another part of the organisation, their contribution helps us continue being there for people when they need support.
Volunteers also bring their own personalities, experiences and skills. Together, they create the welcoming and compassionate environment that defines SHARE.
Volunteers at SHAC help out in many ways and no two days are ever the same. From driving vans to helping to fill in forms, cooking hearty breakfasts to teaching life skills like how to use a washing machine, all whilst helping to combat loneliness.
You do not have to be an expert to help
You do not need specialist experience to become a valued volunteer. What matters most is kindness, reliability and a willingness to help.
We understand that everyone’s availability is different. Volunteering should fit around your circumstances, whether you can offer your time regularly or help more occasionally.
You will become part of a supportive team where your contribution is appreciated and where there is always room for a little laughter alongside the hard work.
Bringing people together
Share gave me a focus in Chester when we left Hong Kong because of the democracy protests. I am a political refugee of sorts, but at SHARE I found people who understood and more HK people like me. It’s all about connecting, sharing past and future, and that’s what SHARE does so well.
Elaine, SHARE Volunteer
One of the reasons why many people become SHARE volunteers is so they can meet other like-minded people and create friendships and bonds that go beyond their time at SHARE. It is a little community of love and respect brought together by the common interest to help those in need.
Could you become part of the SHARE family?
Volunteering is an opportunity to support your community, meet wonderful people and help make a meaningful difference.
As Liz and Elaine's stories show, you may begin by offering to help but end up finding your community. You never know where that first conversation might lead.
If you would like to learn more about volunteering with SHARE, please get in touch.
We would love to hear from you and tell you more about how you could become part of our team.
Let us know by clicking this link to register your interest.