Fran's Story

A relative newcomer to Innerwick, retired for about 6 years, my garden was now established, the house was by and large sorted and I was toying with a personal project without much enthusiasm.  Then I got a call from someone on the Innerwick Parish Welfare Association Committee asking me if I knew anyone who might volunteer for the post of Secretary.  I found myself putting my hand up.  Two years on, and post Covid, I marvel at the ground that has been covered, and now find myself Chair.

Volunteering has provided many benefits. 

Obviously I’ve got to meet a whole range of people, both locally and from the wider world - people I would never otherwise have had the occasion to meet.  It’s good to be able to stop and talk to most folk on the Main Street - for me at any rate! 

I’ve learnt so much more about the history of the area and appreciation for the lives of the people who have lived here for many years.  I have travelled to all the nooks and crannies of the patch, and learnt first hand the issues confronting us, particularly the area of the energy companies’ projects.  I’ve met amazing people who have been making such a contribution in their communities.  I’ve discovered so much beyond my doorstep.

But most of all, volunteering has given me a chance to put my talents to good use and reactivate old skills - a relief to know they hadn’t disappeared.  And I have a lot more to talk about plus a To Do list that keeps being topped up!

I know life has altered for many post covid.  People have become used to living within their immediate family and personal worlds.  But offering a few hours here and there can open up horizons once more and bring in new energy.  And those precious few hours lighten the load for the rest of us.