As a Senior Officer at Saffery Trust, I value the next generation of our clients, and of our team members, and do what I can to support them in reaching their goals. Helping the next generation is also something I care about greatly in my personal life, and I’m able to have a positive impact thanks to our flexible working policy. 

I have been volunteering for Girlguiding Guernsey’s Rainbows since 2022, supporting girls aged 4-7 to have fun, build friendships and have adventures. It is hugely rewarding to be part of this magical journey, helping young girls to discover their potential and build confidence. 

Girlguiding is the largest youth organisation dedicated completely to girls. It is an affordable activity club, where they learn new skills and earn badges doing fun activities. From growing plants, cooking smores, or trips off island without their parents/carers, Rainbows is full of firsts. 

Rainbows presents a great opportunity for these girls to explore their creative side, get out into the great outdoors, and learn how to look after themselves, others and the world we live in. These are all attributes which will, ultimately, contribute to the type of people the girls will grow up to be, and the impact they will have in whatever they choose to pursue in life. 

Volunteering is not just beneficial for the girls; it also offers immense personal rewards. Engaging with the Rainbows boosts my own mental well-being, reduce stress, and provide a sense of purpose. These are all factors which have a direct impact on being a valuable member of my team at Saffery Trust by enabling a healthy work-life balance. 

I also get to enjoy all the adventures alongside the girls and enjoy opportunities that I may not otherwise have. One recent adventure was a trip on the lifeboat hosted by the RNLI whereby the girls earnt their ‘Mayday Mayday’ Challenge Badge which was designed and created to help build confidence in and around the water: an essential skill when living on an island. The joy and laughter shared during all our meetings is infectious, and seeing the girls grow and thrive is incredibly rewarding. 

Saffery Trust recognises the value of volunteering, and, thanks to the firm’s flexible working policy, I can enjoy this fulfilling pastime, without compromising my professional commitments.

Volunteering with Rainbows also provides an excellent opportunity to develop new skills. Whether it’s planning activities, preparing risk assessments, managing groups, or even learning first aid, the skills I gain can be valuable in both my personal and professional life. 

Above all, to me volunteering with Rainbows is about inspiring girls, being inclusive, building confidence and having adventure. From crafts and games to outdoor activities, every meeting is filled with laughter and excitement. The girls’ enthusiasm is contagious, and I find myself looking forward to each session as much as they do.