On this International Women’s Day, we’re celebrating the power of Give to Gain; the idea that when opportunity, belief and support are given, confidence grows, purpose is found, and everyone benefits.
Across our communities, the women we support are giving their time, skills and energy in meaningful ways. In return, they are gaining confidence, independence and a stronger sense of belonging, while enriching the lives of others around them.
What Hannah was given
Hannah was given the opportunity and support to volunteer at a local care home, with encouragement to take on a meaningful role within her community. With the right support in place, she was able to step into a new environment, build a routine, and begin contributing in a way that felt purposeful to her.
What Hannah gained
Over the past seven months, Hannah has gained confidence, structure, and a real sense of purpose. Through her volunteering, she has developed her communication skills, grown in independence, and become more comfortable interacting with staff and residents alike.
Hannah feels proud of how far she has come and of the progress she has made — a reflection of her commitment, effort and resilience.
What we all gained
The care home gained a valued volunteer who brings warmth, kindness, and positivity. Hannah’s presence makes a genuine difference to daily life, and her contribution is both meaningful and appreciated.
Care home residents gained companionship and connection — moments of conversation, shared smiles and a friendly face they look forward to seeing.
What Katie was given
Katie was given the opportunity to become a Shared Lives Ambassador, with trust placed in her to take on real responsibilities. Shared Lives is a community-based model of support where adults live with or are supported by approved carers, building strong, supportive relationships and a real sense of belonging.
As part of this scheme, Katie was supported to run her own bowling group, represent Shared Lives, and take an active role in promoting it within the community.
What Katie gained
Through these opportunities, Katie has gained confidence in herself and her abilities. She now confidently runs groups, speaks at events, and takes part in talks and activities that help promote Shared Lives.
Alongside this, Katie has grown in independence and developed valuable life skills; building self-belief, communication skills, and pride in the role she plays.
What we all gained
We gained a confident, committed ambassador who makes a real impact. Katie has supported the recruitment of new staff, taken part in induction training for new Shared Lives carers, led activities during Shared Lives Week, and helped promote Shared Lives at community events and drop-ins.
Her involvement strengthens the Shared Lives scheme, inspires others, and helps build understanding and connection within the wider community.
What Harriet was given
Harriet was given the opportunity to volunteer in the Severn Zero shop at Taurus Crafts, becoming part of a working social enterprise within the community. With the right support, she was trusted with real responsibilities and encouraged to engage with customers and the wider public.
What Harriet gained
Through volunteering, Harriet has gained valuable life skills and hands-on experience in customer service; skills that are transferable to future paid employment. She has grown in confidence and independence, and feels proud of the role she plays within the shop.
What we all gained
We gained a reliable, enthusiastic volunteer who brings positivity, commitment and energy to the Severn Zero shop. Harriet’s contribution supports the day-to-day running of the enterprise and helps create a welcoming space for customers and the community.
At Camphill Village Trust, we believe this is what a life of opportunity looks like: when support is given, women are empowered to thrive, and communities grow stronger as a result.
