Norman Pyne shares his story with us |
Alison Hitchens Children's Programme Volunteer writes..
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As a family, the news that Annie was suffering from NPC filled us with a mind numbing despair. Our first reaction was of disbelief and to an extent denial. As a father I felt (and still feel) helpless in that role of protector which a dad holds. There is no way I can protect my lovely daughter from the disease. I can only support her, her brother Robert and Mum Kait, and try to make her life as happy as possible.
I have been a volunteer for 5 years now. The first time I volunteered I was a little apprehensive at the prospect of helping in the children’s programme. Although I have small children of my own, I did find it a little daunting. But the minute the children came into the room I was overcome with emotion..............
Trade Up for Niemann-Pick! Why I decided to Get Involved by Lucy Doorbar |
Volunteer
There are many volunteers involved with the NPDG (UK). People volunteer with us for many different reasons, the one thing they have in common is that they find it to be a rewarding and challenging experience. At all levels volunteers are offered support and development opportunities to help them fulfil their role within the Group and are given the option to receive additional training to improve their skills and abilities. This almost inevitably leads to increased confidence and new skills for volunteers.
The NPDG (UK) has an agreed Child Protection Policy, therefore all volunteers working with children and vulnerable adults are required to have an up to date Criminal Records Bureau check. Volunteers are re-checked every three years.
Why volunteer with us?
Make a difference:
Learn new skills and use those you already possess to make a real difference to the lives of those affected by Niemann-Pick Disease.
Meet new people:
Make new friends; we provide a supportive environment enabling you to make the most out of the time you spend with us.
Have fun:
Volunteering can be both fun and fulfilling, allowing you to experience a variety of opportunities generally unavailable.
Volunteers are given the opportunity to further develop their abilities, leading to increased confidence and new skills, often going on to use their experience in their chosen career.
You could help by ........
• Raising Awareness of Niemann-Pick disease
• Organising or helping out at a fundraising event
• Assisting in the production of educational literature regarding NPD
• Annual Family Conference – help with the Children and Young Adults’s Program