As part of our Volunteers’ Week celebrations, we’re spotlighting different kinds of volunteering done in the Falkirk area. Today’s theme is groups and individuals who work to improve quality of life for those with additional support needs, like the Forth Valley Sensory Centre.

Forth Valley Sensory Centre (FVSC) is a Community Hub which offers support, advice, social opportunities, practical help and guidance to individuals, groups and the families of people with a sensory impairment.

Their volunteers perform a variety of roles, including working in the centre’s Tiki Café, which enable them to deliver key services and improve the lives of those living with sensory impairment in Forth Valley.

“Volunteers bring diversity, energy and different views to the Centre, and everything we do,” explains Vicki Ferguson, FVSC’s Volunteer Coordinator.

John, who’s been volunteering for 30 years, believes that volunteering can be educational as well as motivation to get out of the house. “You’d be surprised at what you can learn.” He’s even learned how to sail a boat! And most importantly, he can pass his knowledge on.

Volunteering is a great way to gain skills and experiences that help improve your employability, along with making new friends, but it also allows you to feel that you’re helping your community, which Trish says is important to her.

Lee says volunteering has helped her develop a lot of confidence, especially in interacting with people, as well as dealing with the money and tills in the café. “I really enjoy the experiences.”

“Our volunteers allow us to offer more, better services,” Vicki says. “They bring different experiences and support.”

Volunteering can open up so many different possibilities, for both the volunteer and the people in their communities. This Volunteers’ Week, why not look into volunteering with the many services around Falkirk, like the Forth Valley Sensory Centre, who help improve people’s lives.

“Come in and have a chat with us,” says Vicki. “There’s so much potential in volunteering, and so many different skills and experiences to be gained – give it a try!”