Welcoming Grace to the team at Dudley CVS

I’m thrilled to have joined the team here at Dudley CVS as the Volunteering Development Officer. Stepping into this new role feels rewarding, although slightly surreal, as I’m extremely passionate about giving back to our local community.

Having grown up in Brierley Hill, and continuing to have close family and friend connections across the Dudley Borough, I am very excited to work within an organisation that is at the heart of somewhere very important to me.

Prior to taking up this post, I have strived to work within roles that actively engaged local communities and residents within research. I worked as a user researcher at Birmingham City Council, focusing on ways to improve council services that centred on the needs and ideas of residents. I also worked as a postdoctoral researcher, promoting public and patient involvement of teachers, parents and school children to direct research taking place within schools. This passion for community engagement has also extended to my academic background, where my doctorate focused on actively engaging older adults to ensure outcomes for promoting health ageing truly resonated with their needs and wants in their local areas. One of my favourite memories from this experience is bringing together local groups and organisations to truly listen to older adults advocate their needs.

Although my work and academic background centred a little further afield of the Dudley Borough, I have always tried to give back to my own local area. I have volunteered at a range of different organisations, from a local veterinary centre at a younger age to giving my time at a Friends of Parks group, Dudley Zoo, West Midlands Safari Park and Russells Hall Hospital. From my time volunteering, I’ve met some amazing people, learned new skills and have been able to give back, which is something that resonates deeply with me.

Here at Dudley CVS, I’m excited to leverage this experience to cultivate a thriving volunteer network. I believe volunteers really are the backbone of making positive changes, both for individuals and the wider community. I’m dedicated to fostering a network of supportive and rewarding volunteering experiences and opportunities, as I believe this where a real difference can be made.

Whether you’re a new or seasoned volunteer, or you are a group or organisation looking to engage volunteers, I encourage you to reach out and connect in a way that works for you (email, phone, or I am more than happy to come to you!). I’m eager to hear your ideas, answer any questions you may have, and work together to empower a volunteer network of positive changes across the Dudley Borough.

I’m looking forward to meeting you!