Neil Chadwick – Scouts and St. John Ambulance

In my role as a scout leader, I've had so many opportunities to try activities that I wouldn't have done otherwise, such as rock climbing and going to Gilwell Park for an open day, which was a fantastic inspiration to me as a new volunteer. Last summer I also spent several weeks helping out at the World Scout Jamboree in Essex and have put my name down for the next one in 2011 in Sweden.. It was great to meet so many people from all over the UK and abroad committed to one cause. I believe my enthusiasm and commitment have been an asset to my Group, and have enabled the adults and young people to enjoy Scouting and grow. You get out of Scouting what you put in, for me it's something to be proud of.’

Volunteering with St John Ambulance Wales is special. As an organisation it can offer so many opportunities in so many different areas, and you really do get a lot in return, I can’t see myself not being a member as I’ll always be able to give back something in return for all I have gained. For example I have received training on using AED (Automated External Defibrillators) and with this new knowledge I can help more and more people. It is a brilliant opportunity as you meet and make new friends and get to provide cover for exciting events in your area, I for example have covered local duties in Penarth, football matches at Ninian park to music, and monster truck events at the millennium stadium, there is something for everyone and the satisfaction of helping people in need is amazing.