One Step Can Change Everything
After being away from employment for around 20 years due to health issues, getting back into a routine felt like a huge step for Gerald. Then Gerald walked through our doors, here at Voluntary Action Coventry and decided that our Improving Lives course could be just what he needed to get back on his feet. Within two weeks he landed a fantastic volunteer role and more. Recently he caught up with Shivani Carter, our Improving Lives Lead Officer, here is his story:
Shivani explains:
“When Gerald joined Improving Lives, he wanted to become more active, rebuild his confidence and begin thinking about his future again. What happened next shows just how much can change when someone is given the opportunity, encouragement and space to take things at their own pace.
Through the programme, Gerald explored different community opportunities and began to discover what he was capable of. He particularly enjoyed visits to local organisations and volunteering projects, which helped him see that he could contribute, learn new skills and connect with others.”
Since completing Improving Lives, Gerald has continued that momentum. Thanks to Jemma and Shivani’s support/signposting he has landed rewarding community roles and seems so smiley.
He is now a regular volunteer at Myton Hospice Shop, volunteering twice a week, and has also taken part in gardening at Foleshill Community Centre and a litter-picking activity with the Coventry Wombles.
But his progress hasn’t stopped there. Gerald has completed the Build Your Skills course and is now developing his digital skills through a 13-week course at Broad Street.
Most importantly, he says his confidence has grown enormously. Gerald says:
“Improving Lives was very helpful in getting me back into the swing of things and reigniting my confidence in myself.”
He also reflected on the difference taking those difficult first steps has made:
“I’ve learnt how quickly things can change for the better when you don’t avoid difficult challenges.”
Gerald is continuing to work towards his longer-term goal of returning to employment, but in the meantime, he has built something equally important; confidence, routine, new skills and a stronger connection with his community.
His journey is a wonderful reminder that progress doesn’t always happen in one big leap.
Sometimes, it starts with simply saying yes to one opportunity.
Huge congratulations to Gerald for your achievements and a big thank you for giving your free time and skills in this way. Thank you for sharing your story with us, which we hope will inspire others to ‘take the first step’.
Find out more about the course
Could ‘Improving Lives’ be right for you? Or someone you support?
Enrol now for our 5 January 2027.
Sign up to the next course here: Improving Lives Course | Get Involved Coventry