Charlotte's Story
Miscarriage Services
1. Introduce yourself
1. Introduce yourselfI volunteer with MISS.
2. How long have you been volunteering with them?
I’ve been volunteering with MISS for 5 months.
3. Why did you decide to begin volunteering?
After finishing university, I realised I needed more experience before applying for jobs. While looking for volunteering roles, I was drawn to MISS because I appreciated the opportunity to make and see a difference in a smaller charity.
4. What have you enjoyed most about your time volunteering?
What I’ve enjoyed most about my time volunteering is being part of a friendly, supportive, and collaborative team. It’s rewarding to know that even small actions can contribute to something meaningful.
5. What benefits have you experienced personally?
In addition to gaining invaluable experience, volunteering has also helped build my confidence, communication skills, and knowledge of how third-sector organisations operate.
6. Do you have any stories you could share about your time volunteering?
A memorable moment for me was helping out at an awareness stand where I got to speak with people, answer their questions, and connect them with support. It was clear just how powerful these conversations could be as many people stopped to share their stories, and you could see how important it was for them to feel heard and not alone. Talking about miscarriage can still be seen as somewhat of a taboo subject, but being part of MISS has shown me how vital it is to normalise these discussions. The awareness stands especially highlight this by creating space for open, compassionate chats and showing people that it’s okay to talk about their experiences.
7. Has there been any challenges? How have you overcome them?
I’d definitely recommend volunteering, especially to anyone in a similar position to me, who may have academic knowledge but not much hands-on experience. I would particularly recommend MISS as they have a lot of different areas to volunteer in and it is such a flexible and understanding place to volunteer, which has made it easy to balance with other commitments. I’m really glad I found it.
8. Would you recommend volunteering to others?
If you’re thinking about volunteering, I’d recommend reaching out to charities or organisations to learn more. It’s such a worthwhile way to gain key skills and help support causes that couldn’t do what they do without volunteers.
9. What would you say to anyone who is thinking about volunteering?
I also want to say a huge thank you to the team at MISS. Their support, encouragement, and belief in their volunteers made me feel valued from day one. Volunteering here has played a crucial role in helping me secure a paid position in another health charity, and I truly believe that my experience with MISS made all the difference in getting that opportunity.
