Couple goals in volunteering - John and Nicola's Story
- jenpaton5
- 2 hours ago
- 3 min read
A volunteering story to inspire us all!
John and Nicola have truly found their stride together, proving that volunteering can make a difference not only to others, but also to each other.
Together for six years and engaged for four, the couple recently moved in together and have been supporting each other to cook healthy meals and manage a budget. Their story began back in 2005 when they first met at St Mary’s youth club. After years of friendship, they started their relationship in 2020.
It was Nicola who first encouraged John to get involved with Wirral Mencap, where he joined the lunch club and took part in several courses including Health Awareness and Cookery. Both have been keen learners, building confidence and new skills through the organisation.
Their volunteering journey at Marine Place Café began in August 2023 after hearing from Mencap Wirral that the café urgently needed volunteers. Nicola had just completed her Gateway Award - an activity-based award which people with a learning disability, can take part in. The award uses activities in areas of everyday life to help participants experience new things, develop life skills, build confidence, become more independent, improve health and wellbeing and make new friends.
Meanwhile, John who already volunteers at the Foodbank and a local day centre, whilst working for Asda in Woodchurch, was looking for a new opportunity to use his customer service skills and make use of his Friday. It was John’s dad who suggested they volunteer together as a way to spend time together whilst making a difference, which is something they both love to do.
They applied and found that the café needed help on Fridays, a day that suited them both perfectly. They began as dishwashers and plate collectors and soon became part of the fabric of the café team.
“John and Nicola are amazing,” says Matthew, a member of Age UK Wirral, Liverpool & Sefton staff working at Marine Place. “They’re so reliable, always turn up when they say they will and work incredibly hard. It’s been wonderful watching them support each other and develop new skills.”
Located within Marine Lake GP Surgery and run by Age UK Wirral, Liverpool & Sefton, the café forms part of a wellbeing hub offering a welcoming space for local people to connect, enjoy a meal or a coffee, and take part in community activities. With its friendly atmosphere, it’s easy to see why John and Nicola love spending their Fridays there. Over time, they’ve become firm favourites among staff, volunteers and regular customers alike.
In just two years, John and Nicola have mastered the coffee machine, perfected their cappuccinos and learnt the ins and outs of working in a café environment. They’re now preparing to complete their Level 2 Food Hygiene Certificate, another milestone in their shared journey.
“It’s extra special being able to volunteer together as a couple,” says Nicola. “It’s a great way to meet new people and build confidence. I really love helping people, and it’s even better getting to do that with John.”
We all know the phrase "if you want something doing, ask a busy person" - this very much applies to John and Nicola, who are involved in lots of organisations and activities. Outside of their café volunteering, John and Nicola both remain active with Wirral Mencap and enjoy travelling, swimming and going to the gym, proving that their energy and commitment know no bounds.
When asked what they’d say to others thinking about volunteering, their answer was simple:
“Why would you not volunteer? You get to have fun, find friends and gain skills – it’s great!”
What a perfect recommendation from two amazing people; true couple goals and an inspiring reminder of the power of volunteering!
To find out more about Wirral Mencap, their range of courses and activities, and the Gateway Project go to Wirral Mencap | Wirral Mencap
To find out more about ways you can get involved as a volunteer at organisations like Age UK Wirral, Liverpool & Sefton, the Foodbank and Wirral Mencap – look at the range of volunteer activities on our Wirral CVS Volunteer Portal