Providing vital research into the care sector: Amber's volunteering story

Amber is one of the Together Trust's amazing volunteers who has been working as an Assistant Researcher for the Together Trust since March 2023.

In this blog, she shares with us her experience so far and what she's gained from the role.

What sparked your interest in applying for the role of Volunteer Assistant Researcher?

I applied for the volunteer assistant researcher because I really wanted an opportunity to research. I missed applying those skills into something or into a project. Then, when I looked further into Together Trust and their values, their work, and what they have done, I knew I wanted an opportunity to use my passion for research for the charity.

What has been one of your favourite aspects of the voluntary role?

I would say there were two things I like the most about this voluntary role. Firstly, I have greatly enjoyed learning something new. I have a passion for research and I loved harnessing those skills and using them to dive into policy and the literature to create something that could be used for change.

Secondly, I have enjoyed working with Together Trust. They are an amazing charity with lovely open people working for them. They do great work at Together Trust and I am glad I can contribute to that. Doing my first project with Styliana, Campaigns and Advocacy Officer, has been everything I hoped. She has been supportive, engaging, friendly, and passionate all the way through and it has been a pleasure to work with her.

What skills or knowledge have you gained that you believe will be valuable in your future career?

I have come to greatly appreciate the professionalism, passion, and supportiveness of Together Trust. They have set very high expectations of what I hope a future career in research will be.

Also, I feel I have learnt a lot about the process of collaborating with a team to produce a piece of work. I will definitely take those skills and high expectations into my future career. 

How has this volunteering experience influenced your personal or professional goals?

My goals for a career in research are the same, however, my volunteering experience has reignited a belief in myself. I have a new found confidence in my abilities and my ability to produce and collaborate with someone to produce work that I can be proud. 

What advice would you give to someone considering a similar voluntary role in research?

Go for it! If you are new to research or have been doing it for a long time I recommend it. Getting to work with the passionate and dedicated people that work for charities like Together Trust has given me great enjoyment, developed my skills, and has given me a platform to do something I am passionate about.

A huge thank you to Amber for all her work with the Campaigns team and for sharing her story with us. Stay tuned for her research paper, which we'll be publishing on our research page, later this month!

If you are interested in volunteering with the Together Trust, check out our website to find out more or get in touch at volunteer@togethertrust.org.uk