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Having served with the Royal Marines for years, volunteer Carl has always had strong connections with the South West of England and has made his home in Exmouth, just a few miles from the workshop in Budleigh Salterton.
But with unexpected health issues a year ago, he knew that a change in routine was required to slow down the pace and get his wellbeing back on track. However, he wasn’t ready for a complete halt. His years of military service, followed by an equally testing 20-year tenure working in the probation service, had taught him that slowing down may make sense, but stopping completely was not an option.
That’s why when a friend recommended that he look at the workshop and find out what was going on, he jumped at the chance.
It’s also a chance to stay focused and active in a relaxed, friendly environment. He can commit as much or as little time as he wants, and is currently the resident expert in, sharpening skills to help people breathe new life into tired old tools and get knives and blades back into tiptop condition.
But being able to bring his wealth of experience to the table is just one of the things that Carl enjoys about volunteering.
He has also been busy honing extra skills of his own, including undertaking a recent comprehensive first aid training course to update his knowledge. Though he has a wide range of experience to call on, Carl also appreciates that one’s background does not dictate your role as a volunteer.
“There are no expectations that because you used to be that you should be this,” he observes. “You just need to turn up and be who you are.” He is also keen to point out that potential volunteers are not thrown in at the deep and are guided and empowered to follow best practice, with strong protocols in place at every stage.
Interested in getting involved? We need volunteers and supervisors for activities. You’ll develop new skills while you help others do the same and we only ask a few hours per week. If you’d like to join our friendly team, find out more by popping in to the Workshop any weekday morning, or Email enquiries.bcwt@gmail.com or call 01395 443455 or www.budleighcommunityworkshop.org.uk
