How did you join MVAP?
I moved to Manchester last year because I wanted to get a new start. I’ve always liked it as a city. Before I came, I’d had a difficult time health wise for quite a while and, to keep myself going, had studied and used my lived experience of health issues a little. I knew that in a new city, where I hardly knew anybody, I needed to have something in my life where I could get my feet on the ground. Otherwise I could be quite easily isolated. I searched online using the volunteering centre’s search engine, and came across the MVAP programme. I saw the organisations involved and what they’re doing in Manchester, and it seemed really interesting. I also thought I might be able to use some of my experience and benefit from other people’s experiences. I liked the idea of it, and it was a manageable level of commitment, at about one day per week.
How was the MVAP training?
I started the training in spring 2023. I really liked the training and looked forward to it. The way it was broken into different topics was very helpful. There was a good mix of people who were bringing a lot of different life experiences to it. The training modelled what we should be bringing to clients – for example, empowering people – I felt empowered through the training too.
I did my placement with Cheetham Hill Advice Centre (CHAC). I felt thrown in at the deep end, which was daunting, but the staff and existing volunteers there were very supportive. Doing the placement alongside the training really complemented it. I learnt about the real world by being in Cheetham Hill and the practical resources people need and services available. It improved my learning as well as my skills as a volunteer, including about how to step into a role and feel comfortable and confident.
What has happened since?
I volunteered at CHAC for about 6 months. The whole experience really built my confidence. I learnt what it’s like to be in an office environment, both practical things and being in a team. I did some ongoing shorter training sessions through MVAP, such as for state pension age benefits and housing.
My biggest achievement there was helping a family with two children who all had health issues and who weren’t getting the services and funding they were entitled to. It was quite a long process and my achievement was the level of regular ongoing support I could give them. For many people, it’s important they feel heard, alongside someone taking action to support them. Eventually they did get what they should have had all along. I was pleased that CHAC trusted me to do quite detailed work with people, which can be very challenging.
I now have a job at Greater Manchester Law Centre. I wouldn’t have got it without having had the MVAP training and volunteering experience. Plus MVAP directly encouraged me to apply. I work two days a week and can really put my experience into action.
What’s next for you?
There’s been a lot of change for me over the past year and I feel that’s enough for now. I’ve done a lot of growth and want to maintain where I am for the time being. I love my job and am committed to staying in this area of work.
“We have recruited a staff member who was trained by MVAP – what that meant for us as an employer is that we have quality assurance in relation to his training and work he’s done.” Director, Greater Manchester Law Centre
