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Volunteers are at the heart of SIG, bringing compassion, experience, and dedication to the people we support every day. Pat Woodford, a volunteer with SIG Penrose Roots in Luton, embodies all of this and more. After a long career in teaching, Pat chose to use her skills in a new way, supporting adults within the community to feel welcomed, heard, and valued. Recently recognised as a runner-up for Volunteer of the Year at the SIG Annual Awards, Pat’s story highlights the powerful impact that kindness, patience, and a listening ear can have. In this interview, Pat shares what inspired her to volunteer, the moments that have stayed with her, and the personal impact of giving back.
What inspired you to become a volunteer with SIG Penrose Roots?
Having retired from teaching after 24 years, I was used to working with children with a wide range of physical and emotional needs, as well as liaising with parents and staff to support them. I wanted to volunteer in a role that would allow me to transfer my skills to help adults with similar needs.
How long have you been volunteering, and what does your role involve?
I have been volunteering with SIG since January 2025. I knew Lynne, having taught at the same school as her, and she encouraged me to join her and help out at Roots Connects, the social group run at Strathmore Avenue Church Hall. I talk to members who attend to make them feel welcome and comfortable, help make breakfast and generally make sure members have a listening ear if they need it. Since September 2025, I have also been supporting Sally in the glasshouse at Stockwood Park on Mondays and Thursdays at Roots to Recovery, where we plant, pot, and sell plants to raise money for Penrose. We also have members attending for plant therapy.
What do you enjoy most about volunteering with SIG Penrose Roots?
Meeting new people and feeling as though I am having a positive impact on their lives.
Can you share a memorable moment from your volunteering experience?
Watching new members gradually become more comfortable with other members and see their social skills massively improve over time. Getting to know members and seeing the smiles on their faces. Going on a day out to Hunstanton with the staff team and members, having a great time and getting soaking wet playing crazy golf. 😂
What skills or personal strengths do you feel you’ve developed through volunteering?
My patience and listening skills when dealing with adults rather than children have developed.
What challenges have you faced, and how have you overcome them?
Occasionally, members will share personal information that I am not trained to deal with on my own. In these situations, I provide a listening ear to help them work out what they might need to do for themselves. I may need to mention things to staff who are better qualified to signpost members to SIG staff who can support them.
What would you say to someone considering volunteering with SIG?
If you are a kind, patient, friendly person who wants to make a difference in the lives of vulnerable adults, then don’t hesitate to volunteer. It’s very rewarding and always makes me smile.
How has volunteering impacted you personally?
It has given me a sense of purpose and the opportunity to help others. If I didn’t volunteer, I know that I would feel isolated and get bored in my retirement. I like to keep busy and am used to helping others.
