Volunteering for Pact has been

one of the most rewarding things.

"Volunteering for Pact has been one of the most rewarding things. Seeing that you are making a difference to someone just by being friendly, kind and empathetic makes time spent there worthwhile. 

Visitors come to the Centers, and sometimes this may be their first time at that prison or any prison, which is daunting. Some may be at a very low point, anxious, or even scared; kind words and reassurance can mean the difference between a good visit and a great one. 

I will always ask if they have been before, and if they haven't, talk them through the process and what to expect and then it is always so lovely to speak to them after and see them smile and have that look of relief on their face. 

Working with the service users in the Tea bars is also very rewarding. You are able to teach them small skills they may not have before, and they feel they have achieved something. 

I thoroughly enjoy meeting the visitors at HMP YOI Aylesbury YOI and HMP The Mount as they are all so diverse, exciting and just in need of a kind word, a smile and reassurance, which goes a long way for them. For me, I really feel like I am giving something back."

Find out more

• Find out about volunteering opportunities near you.
• Meet more of our volunteers and learn about the different volunteering roles in Pact.
• Find out about fundraising to support our work or make a donation online.
• Do you want to work for us? Take a look at our current vacancies.

If you want to find out more about Christine's role or if you have any questions about volunteering with Pact, get in touch with us on [email protected].