Pat volunteers at our Community Pantry as a Personal Shopper – something she says she’s long wanted to do after she retired.
She assists our service users or “shoppers” in picking food and hygiene products from the Pantry, and helps to ensure everyone gets the items they need. Pat is a joy to have around, as she always greets our team with a smile, and also loves to make people laugh with any wonky fruit and veg she finds at the Pantry.
Tell us a little about your background
I come from Dumfries, a town in Scotland, and came to London in 1976.
When did you start volunteering at The Abbey Centre?
I have volunteered for nearly five years – it will be five years in October.
What does a typical day look like for you?
When I get up, I have a cup of tea and do a word search and a code breaker. I always have a walk, and sometimes meet up with a friend.
How does your volunteering support our community?
It is good to see the shoppers coming in and getting a good shop and they are happy. You feel you are helping.
Why did you choose this role?
When I retired I wanted to work in a food bank.
What do you like about volunteering at The Abbey Centre?
Meeting up with shoppers. And I love working with my colleagues.
What are you passionate about?
Love going to new places, I really enjoy my holidays.
What’s been your favourite memory at The Abbey Centre?
Meeting all the people at the Pantry – everyone is so friendly.
Can you share one thing you’ve learnt from your volunteering?
How to work as a team and help each other.
What’s your favourite thing about South Westminster?
The pantry is a nice community. It is a nice part of London.
Volunteer with us
At The Abbey Centre, our work depends on the support of amazing volunteers like Pat. You can find out more about volunteering at The Abbey Centre on our Volunteering page.
