A Foot in the Door: How Volunteering Can Lead to A Paid Role

Emma Griffiths
4 hours ago
3 min read

A Wirral volunteer story about confidence, community and finding a place to belong

For many people, volunteering begins with a simple question: Could I give a little time and make a difference? For one Equilibrium North West CIC volunteer, Laura, that first step became much more than a way to help others. It became a path towards confidence, connection, employment and a renewed sense of purpose.

With a background in mental health, education, local charities and student support at the University of Liverpool, she brought years of experience in supporting people. But after a period of reflection and a change in family circumstances, she knew she was ready for a new chapter: one rooted in kindness, community and helping local people grow.

Finding a New Focus Through Volunteering

She began volunteering with Equilibrium in May, stepping into a Volunteer Co-Ordinator role that involved contacting potential volunteers, meeting new people and supporting the administration that helps the volunteering journey run smoothly.

Like many people considering volunteering, she felt some nerves at the start. Change can feel daunting, even when it is the right decision. But what Laura found at Equilibrium was a welcoming, supportive environment where kindness was not just spoken about, but put into practice every day.

“I just love coming to Equilibrium. I have been made to feel very welcome and offered so much kindness.”

More Than a Role: A Community

One of the most rewarding parts of Laura’s experience has been meeting people from across the Wirral and helping them feel comfortable enough to try something new. Volunteering gave her the chance to support others as they explored their own skills, confidence and possibilities.

She was also struck by just how busy and vibrant Equilibrium is. The Hub welcomes people from many different walks of life, from baby groups and lunch clubs to drop-ins at the Pear Tree Café. Across all of it, she noticed the same thread running through, kindness, support and a genuine belief in people.

Along the way, she developed new practical knowledge too, including learning new IT systems and gaining a better understanding of how governance works in Community Interest Companies, alongside the similarities and differences with charity governance.

Confidence, Wellbeing and Belonging

Volunteering is often described as giving time to others, but Laura’s story shows how much it can give back. Being able to contribute, feel useful and support the local community became a real boost to confidence and wellbeing.

For Laura, one of the biggest benefits has been finding a place where she feels she fits in, somewhere she can be authentically herself while making positive change locally.

“A moment that really stood out was dancing with a toddler at our lunch club, who was completely lost in the music, while people from all over the Wirral enjoyed their lunch. I remember thinking, I feel so at home here.”

From Volunteer to Employee

That first step into volunteering has now opened the door to employment. From October, Equilibrium have secured funding for the position and Laura will be taking on the role of Volunteer Manager and Fundraising Officer at Equilibrium, continuing the work she began as a volunteer and bringing her skills, experience and passion into a new paid role.

It is a powerful reminder that volunteering can be a route into meaningful work. It gives people the chance to build confidence, refresh skills, learn new systems, meet new people and show what they can offer in a supportive environment.

Thinking About Volunteering?

If you are thinking about volunteering but are not sure where to start, Laura’s advice is simple, get in touch. The Volunteering Portal can help people find opportunities that suit their interests, experience and availability. There is a level of volunteering for everyone, whatever skills you already have.

Enthusiasm and kindness go a long way. Skills can be learned, confidence can grow and, sometimes, the first small step into volunteering can become the beginning of something much bigger.

“Volunteering is a chance to help other people in your local community in a way that will positively improve your own life.”

If, like Laura, you'd like to share your perspective on volunteering with us, then join us at our Volunteering Strategy Kickstart Event to test what we have heard, help identify priorities and begin building a Wirral-wide strategy that is ambitious, inclusive and rooted in real experience.