Abi’s Volunteering Story
For most of my life I always felt different, although I never really understood why. School was extremely difficult for me, and I experienced years of bullying which had a huge impact on my confidence and mental health. I was always the quiet one, always slightly to the side, never fully feeling like I belonged anywhere.
When I was 14, I was diagnosed with autism. By that point my mental health had become very poor and eventually my parents made the decision to home educate me. During that time, my family helped me understand autism more and slowly I began to understand myself too. Over time, things started to improve but I was still very anxious about the outside world and being around people.
A big reason I wanted to start volunteering was because of everything I had been through myself. I know what it feels like to feel isolated, misunderstood and left behind and I wanted to help people who may be going through similar struggles. Even though I was still scared and lacked confidence, I felt determined to do something positive and take a step forward.
I spoke to my Godmother Lorna, who is a Priest and someone who has always been a very important source of support and guidance in my life. She told me about The Community Waffle House in Lyme Regis and explained the values behind it – kindness, connection and creating a safe space for people who may be struggling.
I still remember visiting the café for the first time with my mum before applying to volunteer. I walked in expecting to feel uncomfortable and overwhelmed but instead I felt calm and accepted. The atmosphere was warm and genuine and for the first time in a long time I felt safe being around people.
That experience gave me the confidence to apply to volunteer. I still remember my first trial shift so clearly. I walked in feeling nervous, but everyone was calm, patient and welcoming. I was given a mentor who showed me around, explained everything to me and helped me settle in. It felt supportive rather than intimidating which made such a difference.
Volunteering has not always been easy. After my trial shift there were times where my anxiety became overwhelming and I missed a few shifts. But the team never judged me or made me feel like a problem. They were patient, supportive and worked with me to help me feel comfortable coming in. Slowly, I began building confidence speaking to customers and interacting with people again after spending so long isolated at home.
Now, one of my favourite parts of volunteering is talking to people.
I love seeing regular customers and remembering their usual orders, and I genuinely enjoy being surrounded by people – something that once terrified me. The atmosphere at the Waffle House feels more like a family than a workplace.
Through volunteering, I have learned that we are all just people at the end of the day. Everyone has struggles that others may not see and nobody should be made to feel less than because they are different. Volunteering has helped me realise that I do not need to hide who I am or pretend to be somebody else to fit in.
It has also given me so much personally. I have gained friendships, social confidence, independence and a real sense of peace within myself.
I believe more young people should try volunteering because it can completely change your life. It gives you purpose, confidence, routine and connection. For people who struggle with anxiety or feeling out of place it can be a gentle way to step into the world without fear of being judged.
For me, volunteering is about giving back to others in the same way people once helped me. I want to continue growing in confidence and helping more people.
If you would like to volunteer for Waffle, they have various roles available from supporting Front of House, Gardening, Befriending, Community Support, School projects. For more information email ruth@waffle.org.uk or go to their website and complete an application form.
