“Without the help of charities, we would have really struggled when we arrived in this country – that’s why I want to give something back.”
Dorcas Ogunwale is a much-valued volunteer for Walsall Healthcare NHS Trust’s Well Wishers charity and she is sharing her story this Black History Month.
The mum of three came to the UK in May 2023, with husband Oriyomi and her sons, 10 year old twins and a seven year old.
“We came to the UK from Nigeria for better work opportunities and for greater opportunities for our sons to progress,” Dorcas, 41, explained.
“When we arrived here, with very little, charities were our lifesaver. We had a home, but it was empty and we needed to sort out furniture and the homely touches that we all like to add. We didn’t have much money because of just starting our new jobs and needing to save up for the bigger items like a fridge. But we went to charity shops and were able to buy lots of things at cheaper prices to help us get on our feet.
“I have never forgotten this experience. It is the kindness of people who give to charity shops to help someone else, the lovely volunteers who help out in them and the fact that people in our situation – or people struggling financially – have this lifeline. I went on the internet to see what I could do as a volunteer in Walsall, which is near where we live, and I saw this opportunity to volunteer for the Trust.
“It is so important to me to pay back our gratitude, and my family’s wish, so a role as a charity volunteer was just the right fit.”
Dorcas, who is a care worker, helps out each Thursday in the Fundraising Hub in the Manor Hospital. She sorts through donations, tidies up the hub and promotes the charity to patients, visitors and staff.
“I always have a smile on my face when I’m here because I want people to feel they have a friendly face to talk to. They might be feeling anxious or scared about coming to hospital themselves, or to visit someone, and I want them to feel Ok about it.”
Dorcas has also found a friend in fellow volunteer John Winsper who also helps out Well Wishers.
“John has so much knowledge and is very kind and patient. He also makes me laugh! I enjoy working with him a lot,” she said. “In Black History Month when we’re talking about people’s experiences and cultures and what we learn from each other I think John and me show that completely different backgrounds, ages and interests should be no barrier to respecting and learning from others.”
Georgie Westley, Fundraising Manager, added: “We look forward to seeing Dorcas each week as her smile lights up the hub. And as she’s described, her and John make a great team which is lovely to see. Thank you Dorcas for supporting our charity and sharing your story with us.”