‘It’s good to hear back that you’re making a difference’

1 April 2015

VOLUNTEERS Anne McClure and Rosemary McGrath have been working with Good Morning Down since the charity’s launch in 2005.

They have watched the service grow and develop from its early days based at the Down Arts Centre to a thriving organisation which now provides a service to 110 vulnerable adults across the district.

Anne got involved with the charity after attending a carers’ group event in Ballynahinch when a woman told her there was a job which suited her advertised in a local newspaper. That job was a volunteer with Good Morning Down.

“The following morning I had an interview and got the job. That was 10 years ago and I have thoroughly enjoyed every minute since. I like helping and it gives me real pleasure to be able to help others,” she said.

“The job is very rewarding and I really love going into work. You could not do this job if you did not enjoy it and what I love is the rapport you build up with the people you are talking to. The volunteers are more than just a friendly voice at the end of the telephone.”

Anne explained clients who may have concerns about a particular issue sometimes rely on the volunteers to put them in touch with those who can help them.

“I love the job and love chatting to people. You really get a lot out of knowing that a telephone call means so much to the person at the other end of the line,” she added.

Rosemary said the volunteers get as much out of providing the service as the clients do and, like Anne, really loves the job.

“I started with Good Morning Down when it was based at the Arts Centre when I was working next door with the Citizens’ Advice Bureau,” she said.

“I get a lot out of what I do and when we organise functions it is great to meet up with people and put faces to names.”

Rosemary added: “The work is particularly rewarding and it is good to hear from clients that you are making a difference in their lives and they look forward to hearing from you.”

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