Talking #TeamCWPT blog
Meet the incredible people and teams at the heart of the organisation in our Talking #TeamCWPT blog. Read inspiring career stories and fascinating insights into working here.
Reflecting on volunteering in mental health
With Taiwo Franklin Gbemigun
Meet Taiwo, one of our brilliant ward support volunteers dedicating his time to support our mental health services in Coventry. Earlier this year, he also won Volunteer of the Year in the Trust's annual Q Awards. For International Volunteer Day, we caught up with Taiwo about his role and the powerful impact it has had on him, and those he supports.
Tell us about your role
"I volunteer as a ward support in Cauldon Centre on Hearsall Ward. In this role, I support patients on the ward by offering companionship, engaging them in meaningful conversations, assisting with day-to-day activities, and helping to create a calm and welcoming environment. I also support staff where needed to ensure the ward runs smoothly and that patients feel listened to, valued, and cared for."
Why did you start volunteering?
"I started volunteering with CWPT because I have a genuine passion for helping others and wanted to give back to the community. Supporting people during challenging times means a lot to me, and volunteering gives me the opportunity to contribute positively to someone's wellbeing, even in small ways."
What has volunteering been like for you?
"It has been an amazing journey so far, and it has opened my eyes to both the difficulties and the deep purpose behind supporting people living with mental health challenges. Every day brings a new situation, a new story, and sometimes a new test of strength for both the patients and me. One of the biggest challenges is recognising that recovery is not a straight path."
Some days are filled with progress, conversation, and smiles. Other days feel heavier when someone is withdrawn, struggling, or losing hope. As a volunteer, I want to lift spirits, but I also have to respect each person's journey and emotions. Learning to be patient, to listen fully, and to offer quiet support when words aren't needed has been a powerful lesson."
"There are also moments where I feel unsure if I'm making a difference. The work can be emotionally demanding, and seeing a person in distress can stay with you long after you leave the ward. But it's exactly in those moments that I remind myself why I'm here."
Wellbeing support for volunteers - Just like our staff members, our volunteers have access to our range of wellbeing support and initiatives. This includes counselling, resources and training, chaplaincy and spiritual care support, shared spaces to reflect together, and much more.
What motivates you as a volunteer?
"What motivates me most is the connection in those small but significant moments when someone feels heard, valued, and not alone. A shared laugh, a conversation about music or memories, or simply sitting together during a difficult moment can change the tone of someone's day. Every little sign of trust and progress reminds me that even minor gestures can have a major impact."
"I am motivated by the resilience I see in others. People who are going through some of their toughest experiences still show courage, kindness, and determination. They inspire me to keep learning, keep showing up, and keep giving my time."
What has volunteering taught you?
"Volunteering on the ward has taught me that compassion is powerful, dignity is essential, and giving hope even in the smallest form is meaningful. The challenge keeps me growing, and the motivation comes from knowing that what I do matters, even when the difference isn't immediately visible."
"Continuing to support Hearsall Ward isn't just about helping others. it has become a deeply important part of who I am."
How did it feel to win Volunteer of the Year in the Trust Q Awards?
"Winning Volunteer of the Year was an incredibly emotional and unforgettable moment for me. I felt honoured, proud, and deeply humbled all at once. Volunteering is something I do from the heart, so being recognised in such a meaningful way was truly overwhelming."
"It made me reflect on the journey, the people I have met, and the impact I have been able to make, and it reminded me how important even small acts of kindness can be. Receiving the award has motivated me even more to continue giving my best and supporting both the staff and the patients I work with. It is a moment I will always cherish."
Inspiring stories like Taiwo's are not uncommon in our services. There is a dedicated community of volunteers at CWPT who an essential part of the difference we make, and we are grateful for every minute of support.
If you would like to join us, find out about volunteering at CWPT.