Tell us about your job working in fundraising? What’s your typical day/week
My main role as a fundraiser is to raise awareness about our special cause both in the community and with local businesses. This involves being 'out and about' as much as possible and meeting new people on a weekly basis.
Working in fundraising is so varied, one day I can be talking to primary school children in a school assembly and then another, I can be exhibiting at a Business Show, no 2 days are ever the same which makes going to work really enjoyable.
What do you enjoy most about working at CHSW and/or in fundraising?
Our Care Teams really are our very own super heroes, so it's a joy to talk about the amazing care and support they provide to babies, children, young people and the families they look after.
I'm always looking for the next opportunity to share my passion for CHSW to whoever will listen, this could be at a networking event or at a WI meeting.
What motivated you to apply to your role?
I was totally blown away by what I heard and saw that day and knew in my heart that this was the charity I wanted to work for.
How did you become an Area Fundraiser? What job were you doing before?
Before joining CHSW, I had been working for the Fire Service in their Fire Control room answering 999 calls. This was another rewarding role, however after 17 years of service, I was looking for a new challenge.
In June 2017, a Fundraising Assistant role came up and I was lucky enough to have lots of transferrable skills that led to an easy transition into the charity sector. I then covered a colleagues maternity leave and knew that the Area Fundraiser role was for me, so when the opportunity arose, I jumped at the chance and now look after all the fundraising activity in Truro and West Cornwall.
What would you say are the skills you need to do your job? Have you learnt any new skills since being in post?
Being a 'people person' is key in this role as you're often the first person people meet from the charity.
Over the last 6 years, I have learnt so much about the charity sector and often say 'everyday is a school day,' as I continue to learn something new most days.
If you could do another job within CHSW for the day, what would it be?
I would love to have the skills needed to be a nurse for the day. Our Care Teams always go the 'extra mile' to ensure not only their clinical needs are taken care of but also their emotional and psychological needs are met, which to me is a very special gift to give a child or young person and their family when they need it most.
How does it feel to be a part of the CHSW family?
There is something really special and unique about being a part of the CHSW family. The cause seems to attract the most caring and supportive people that I've had the pleasure to work alongside.
This also extends to the most amazing and dedicated volunteers, many of which have volunteered since the very beginning, inspired by our founders, Eddie and Jill's family experience.
Tell us anything else you love about your role/CHSW...
Fundraising is so much fun! I love being part of our amazing calendar of events every single year.
What inspires you in your working life?
Supporting a cause that you're passionate about and doing something meaningful to help other people really does lift your wellbeing, plus it's great fun doing it!