Swindon Hub Celebrates Volunteers. Swindon Hub, the town centre’s welcoming, accessible space run by the community, for the community, is marking Volunteers’ Week (2nd–8th June). They’re celebrating the incredible efforts of its 30+ strong volunteer team.
Now in its 41st year, Volunteers’ Week is a UK-wide campaign. It recognises the powerful impact volunteers have across the country. All while encouraging more people to get involved in their communities.
Swindon Hub
Set up in 2021 and run exclusively by volunteers for its first two years, Swindon Hub has grown into a vibrant, inclusive space that’s powered by passion. From its café and bookshop to creative workshops and community support events, the dedication of volunteers shapes every corner of the Hub.
Now operating with one full time staff member and recruiting for a second, the Hub continues to put heavy reliance on its volunteers. They cover two shifts a day, five days a week. Shift leads, event organisers, baristas, IT helpers to bookshop managers. Every role plays a vital part in making Swindon Hub the community cornerstone it’s become.
For long-time volunteer and trustee Jol Rose, the spirit of the Hub lies in connection:
‘Swindon Hub is run by the community, for the community. Our team of volunteers, myself included, love coming here and connecting. We help people feel better connected – and that’s at the heart of why we do it.’
Jaclyn Randle, who is celebrating a year of volunteering, said the Hub offers her a sense of belonging:
‘I step through the doors and it feels like a second home. I have MS and ADHD, and the space here is so inclusive. I’ve never felt like I didn’t fit in. My favourite part? The kids’ play area. I love seeing them having fun, and I even like tidying up after them!’
More than volunteering
For many volunteers, giving back has become more than a mere something to do. It’s become a way of life.
Kelly Moss, a key organiser behind the popular Tea & Chat sessions, said:
‘Even when I’m not on shift, I’m here. It’s inclusive, it’s welcoming, and every session caters for different abilities and needs. I’ve helped train other volunteers and supported events, sometimes while I’m having my lunch!’
For Zoe Grimwood, who joined after finishing a 34-year career, the impact is clear:
‘We had a woman come in one night after fleeing an abusive situation. She didn’t even know we existed until she needed us. We gave her a safe place to sit, listened, made her a cup of tea. She came back the next day to say she was safe. That meant everything. More rewarding than any paid job I’ve had.’
Younger volunteers like Freya Miles are also discovering how meaningful community work can be.
I started volunteering after my mum brought me along when I was unemployed. It’s helped my social skills and given me purpose. I help run the IT support sessions and I love it. It feels amazing to be helpful – but I’ve realised it’s actually more effective l than I thought. What we’re doing matters.’
On the lookout
Swindon Hub is always looking for new volunteers to join its growing team. Whether it’s lending a hand behind the café counter, helping to organise events, or offering a warm welcome to visitors. All volunteers receive a supportive onboarding process. That includes:
- first aid training
- safeguarding awareness
- and basic communication skills training to help them feel confident and prepared in their role.
For more information on how to get involved, visit: www.swindonhub.org
