A creative writing graduate is encouraging other young people to "experience the world of work without being in the world of work" and follow in her volunteering footsteps.
For the past eight weeks, Hannah Burgess, 23, from Shipmeadow, has been volunteering for Bungay Community Support (BCS) to help the charity with its marketing, graphic design and social media.
She is one of 60 volunteers working together to offer a range of support services helping locals in the town and surrounding villages combat rural loneliness and high living costs.
She said: ’’When I heard that the charity needed help with marketing I thought it would be great to get involved.
"I am isolated myself as I live in the middle of a field, so I know how it feels.
"I thought the services the charity offers are great things which I would appreciate if I was older.
"It’s an opportunity to experience the world of work without being in the world of work.
"Since joining I’ve learnt new skills and grown in confidence.”
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Founded in 2020, BCS first started offering emergency aid during the pandemic and hit the headlines in 2021 with its pioneering warm rooms initiative.
Since the pandemic, the charity has expanded its services and is in the process of transforming a former butcher's shop in the town into a community hub and food hall.
The community centre and food hall called Number 28 is due to open in June and Bungay Community Support is in need of new volunteers.
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Teresa Ann Davies, a former nurse and BCS volunteer, said younger volunteers help "bring new skills" compared to the usual elder volunteers.
Organisers are now encouraging younger people to get involved.
For more information about volunteering for Bungay Community Support, you can register by emailing Bungaycs@gmail.com
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