Meet Eilidh

“I've seen some massive transformations in some of the young people…It really is amazing to watch.”

Eilidh first joined COVEY as a volunteer when she was in her fifth year at Secondary School. Ten years later, she reflects on what makes COVEY so special and remembers some of her favourite memories.

Beginning her volunteer journey at the Additional Needs Gaining Experience in Life Skills group (ANGELS) in East Kilbride, Eilidh only intended to stay to complete her volunteering requirement for her Duke of Edinburgh Award. However, on getting to know the wonderful young people she was supporting, she remembers how she simply ‘couldn’t leave them’.

Eilidh’s dedication to her role saw her move from attending one group to two groups a week. She wanted to continue supporting the young people as they moved to their ‘transition’ group. Watching the members of ANGELS progress and develop was incredibly rewarding for Eilidh:

“I've seen some massive transformations in some of the young people. When they first start, sometimes they don't speak or interact and six months down the line, they are taking charge of a game or helping other new young people thrive. It really is amazing to watch.”

This rewarding feeling of making a truly positive difference to the young people, coupled with some great memories, motivated Eilidh to continue volunteering with COVEY over the years:

“My first ever COVEY Christmas pantomime experience is one of my favourite memories. It is what all the young people look forward to all year and I loved it! Everyone singing on the bus and just seeing all the young people having fun was amazing!”

Whilst Eilidh’s passion for helping others and dedication to her volunteering role has undoubtedly had a positive impact on the daily lives of our young people, it is also clear that volunteering with COVEY has given something back to Eilidh:

“It is the best thing I've done and I enjoy it so much. I love the interactive and fun side of volunteering that COVEY gives me. It gives me a break from my busy life and seeing the young people having fun and making new friends is so rewarding.”

The young people within our ANGELS groups have wonderful opportunities they may not otherwise be able to access. Eilidh’s amazing commitment over the years has been integral in making this happen and COVEY is incredibly grateful to her for her dedication, kindness and support.