The Community Volunteer Squad, run by Volunteer Centre Sutton, brings together local volunteers to support residents with one-off tasks that can make a big difference in their daily lives. Since 2024, Linda has been part of this dedicated team, giving her time, energy and compassion to help others — and in the process discovering her own confidence and sense of purpose.
Linda admits that taking the first step into volunteering wasn’t easy. “I had wanted to do something for a little while, but finding the courage to step out and do something different was quite hard,” she explained.
“I wanted to give to the community and also feel appreciated — something that’s really important to me and, I’m sure, to others too.”
Her very first task involved joining another volunteer to help an elderly gentleman sort through his late wife’s clothing. Together they cleared 36 charity bags, easing the burden on the resident while also supporting good causes. “I was nervous as it was out of my comfort zone, but I really enjoyed it. We worked well together, and it felt good to make a difference,” Linda said.
From there, Linda’s volunteering journey grew. One of her most significant projects was supporting a woman who needed both practical help with decluttering and emotional support. For more than six months, Linda visited weekly, helping to sort through belongings, recycle items to local charities and reorganise her home. “Sometimes it wasn’t just about clearing things — it was about being there to listen, to give encouragement, and to celebrate each achievement,” she recalled. “It took a lot of patience and reassurance, but it was amazing to see the progress.”
For Linda, volunteering has been as rewarding personally as it has been for the residents she has supported.
“Sometimes people share their stories, and you realise how much they need not just help, but company. It’s a bit like counselling — talking things through while also getting things done. And in the process, it helped me too.”
Her most recent task saw her working alongside a young mother, offering not only practical solutions for decluttering but also encouragement and confidence-building along the way. “A high five after clearing some bags was a huge achievement for her. I was so proud of each step she made,” Linda said warmly.
Although she has had to pause her volunteering due to a hospital stay, Linda looks back on her time with the Community Volunteer Squad with pride. “I have loved making a difference to people’s lives. It’s nice to be appreciated, to have a chat, to give support, and to be kind. Volunteering has helped my own wellbeing as much as it has helped others.”
Linda’s dedication has now been recognised with a nomination in the Sutton Community Awards’ Outstanding Volunteer, celebrating the quiet but powerful impact of her kindness and commitment to others.
