*day five

I’ve been a volunteer at the Boaz Trust for 10 Months.

This period of helping Boaz has allowed me to meet very nice people and learn a lot about the situation of asylum seekers in the UK. As a French citizen this has been a really enriching experience.

The set-up of Boaz Trust has given me the chance to have an easy and helpful relationship with clients, respecting the story of each person, and considering each as an equal; something which is for me the main issue.

My work at Boaz has been very varied: I appreciate acting as receptionist for Boaz, having true contact with people of different backgrounds.

Working with the case workers and the lawyer, in the client support and production of fresh claims has taught me a lot about the situation of different clients; even if it has been challenging to maintain my hope and optimism, remaining positive and helpful, whilst knowing their futures are out of mine, and their hands.

I’ve also been helping the team with some administrative jobs; organising Boaz events like a “free shop” (a monthly event where clients can access clothes, toiletries and food donated by the general public) or a “skills exchange” (where clients shared skills such as singing and origami).

In all the areas I have worked, my native language has allowed me to be the first point of contact for Boaz clients from French speaking countries.

Working here 3 days a week I really enjoy being a part of a warm and welcoming team who have always made me feel at home.