Our volunteer interview this month is with Ann Ferguson, Chief Officer at Ryedale Carers Support. We caught up with Ann to find out about the amazing work they offer, and to hear about her journey from Trustee to Chief Officer.

Please introduce yourself.

Hello! I’m Ann Ferguson and I started working at Ryedale Carers Support based in Kirkbymoorside and Whitby in July 2024. My role is that of Chief Officer, working with a small group of really committed staff to provide volunteer befrienders to people across Ryedale and Whitby to give their carers a break, or to reduce loneliness and social isolation.

What attracted you to the organisation and role?

I have been a trustee at Ryedale Carers Support for a few years and then this role became available. It was too good an opportunity to let pass me by! It is a super organisation, very well-regarded across the area and within the local authority. I have worked in a range of different roles within social care all my life and in this role I am able to bring all my skills and experiences together in one place.

What would you say to anyone thinking of becoming a Volunteer Coordinator / Manager?

Volunteering is so incredibly rewarding, and it therefore attracts people for so many different reasons. The best bit about spending time with volunteers is getting to know them, to hear their life stories, and to see just how much value they can add to the lives of others and the development of your organisations. Never underestimate them! Great problem solvers, hard workers, quick thinkers and creative beings with so much to give.

What have you learnt about yourself while in this role?

If you need to know something… just ask the team! I have found the team to be so incredibly committed to the vision of the organisation, to be dedicated and hardworking, to be passionate and both knowledgeable and eager to learn. I know that I don’t like working alone, and work much better as part of a highly functioning team… and I have just that team!

Finally, tell us something about yourself that your colleagues would be surprised to know?

This is by far the hardest question of the lot! My hobbies are very predictable… I enjoy walking, I am an avid knitter, and more recently, I started keeping chickens which is an absolute joy. As for something others may be surprised to know… I worked for my dad providing admin support to his wine importing business but I’m almost 100% teetotal. No danger of drinking the profits!

Want to find out more about how we can support you?

If you are currently in a volunteer coordinator role, why not have a look at our specialised training or join our coordinator’s network that offers practical guidance and support to volunteer coordinators and managers across North Yorkshire.