The power of volunteering: Caitlin

Caitlin came to the Vinery opening in Summer of 2022. She found it very difficult to be in large groups and initially presented as a very shy and quiet young lady. She says the Vinery has played a big role in building her confidence:

“I first heard about the Vinery through Facebook last spring, I started volunteering one day a week when they opened, and I’ve been here for over a year now and am here three or four days a week. Everyone here is so lovely and very supportive.

Before I started volunteering, I would have described myself as a very shy, introverted and socially anxious person. Being here has helped me come out of my shell and given me the confidence to push myself outside my comfort zone. For example, this summer I helped present a wellbeing session to approximately 25 people, I was very nervous but now I feel much better about public speaking. I also went on a weekend away by myself for the first time, went wild swimming and bouldering. Being at the Vinery has provided me with so many different opportunities that I wouldn’t have been able to do. I am looking forward to everything the future here will bring.”

The Vinery team have been able to be part of Caitlin’s journey in many ways: she has won her Saltire award for volunteering hours, she has now become a fully trained walk leader and has recently signed up for her Duke of Edinburgh Award.

In November 2023 Caitlin was delighted to let everyone know that she secured a seasonal job with Tesco in Banff.

The Vinery is our vibrant space offering opportunities to learn, grow and flourish in Banff. You can learn more about the Vinery here: https://www.growatthevinery.co.uk/