Q: Why do you love Resource?
A: Resource is like a second family to me. There’s a great atmosphere in the office, always a buzz and everyone is so friendly.
I’m happy that I’ve been able to get involved in initiatives as a volunteer adviser. For example I participated in a retirement planning workshop recently at Jewish Care’s Sandringham campus, where we explored retirement, volunteering and future opportunities.
And I am excited to be taking part in this Q&A to spread the word and ensure that everyone who needs Resource’s help is aware that we are here.
Q: Why did you join Resource?
A: I had been working as a senior executive in financial services for many years and felt that the time had come to do something different, so I started planning my retirement. I like to keep busy, so one of the first meetings I had after my last day at work was with Victoria Sterman, CEO of Resource, to talk about volunteering.
I feel I have a natural affinity with people and, as well as being involved in JP Morgan’s graduate recruitment programme over the years, I also acted as mentor to many individuals both inside and outside of work, and even now my former colleagues seek me out for my advice. With this background, I thought being a volunteer at Resource could be the perfect fit.
Roll on a few months and here I am, a fully fledged volunteer adviser. And yes, I am finding it rewarding and fulfilling. It’s a great feeling to be in a position to help people.
Q: Did you have to do any training?
A: Absolutely! There is a thorough induction and development programme to ensure all volunteers understand the ethos of Resource, the services that Resource offers, and are confident to meet with clients. I was impressed with the quality of the training. The team at Resource has been great, they have all helped me to settle in and are always on hand if I have questions.
Q: What does Resource offer?
A: Resource offers so much to clients and all services are provided free of charge. There is a fantastic range of seminars on offer covering everything you could need from CVs to interview skills to graduate assessment centres, even how to use AI to improve one’s chances of finding a job.
Q: Did you have any previous experience of the charity sector?
A: I have volunteering experience as a school governor at a local academy school and also as a volunteer helping pupils at an inner London primary school with their numeracy levels and confidence. Beyond that, I don’t have extensive charity experience per se, although I have been involved with my local shul, Barnet, helping to deliver food parcels on festivals and to keep in touch with the older members of the community.
Q: How different is working at Resource from your previous jobs?
A: Resource is very different from my previous roles, which were in the high-pressure world of financial services – a culture defined by long hours and relentless deadlines. It is refreshing to have the opportunity to dedicate quality time to supporting clients on their employment search journey and not have one hundred other things going around in my head at the same time.
I also value having time to connect with staff and fellow volunteers, sharing experiences and learning from one another to nurture a strong, collaborative team.
Q: What has been your most satisfying moment at Resource thus far?
A: I was thrilled to represent Resource Charity at the retirement planning event in November, just as I had walked in the door as a volunteer. It was great, even at that early stage, to feel valued for my contribution and for the ideas I bring.
It was a fantastic opportunity to connect with like-minded people and share thoughts on what the future can hold and how Resource can help in that journey.
Q: What is the most interesting aspect of meeting clients face-to-face?
A: It is much easier to build rapport with a client when you meet them face-to-face. Being able to read body language and to pick up on subtle cues adds depth to the interaction and helps both the adviser and the client. It fosters trust and openness, making clients feel heard and understood, and leading to a more productive and meaningful conversation.
For more information or to speak to a Resource adviser, go to resource-centre.org or call 020 8346 4000
Registered charity 1106331
