Roy joined the volunteer programme back in March 2022 and has attended 156 shifts since joining. Roy has received his bronze, silver and gold badge and a special mention for going above and beyond on the Greeter shift.

Roy was born and brought up in Coventry so is a true Coventry kid. Roy’s passions are Coventry City FC his beloved team. Roy’s enthusiasm for life and keeping busy is amazing, he likes to fill every spare moment. He enjoys going to the Enterprise Club, where he plays pool, dominoes and is a whizz when it comes to karaoke and air guitar. Roy has a kind and gentle nature and is a great with the younger generation and all his fellow volunteers. Roy is close to his family who he sees most weeks and loves Coventry’s community spirit welcoming people from all walks of life.

Case Study:

What inspired you to sign up to be volunteer? I had seen the volunteers on a few occasions in town while carrying out their city centre Greeter shifts, and I wanted to take part and become a volunteer. I loved the uniform the volunteers were wearing and how they were engaging with the public and was very keen to get started as soon as possible.

What have you gained from your experience volunteering so far? I have gained more confidence and new friendships. Volunteering has made my week more interesting and has set a routine.

Have you been able to share your interests to being a volunteer? When people come around to see me, I tell them all about my volunteer journey as a City Host and how proud I am to be taking part. I really enjoy telling them about the Greeter shifts and how they make me feel happy and part of a team and very much involved.

What do you enjoy the most about being a City Host? Being on the Greeter shifts with Pete and other volunteers I have got to know over the last 2 years. I really enjoy the sausage roll trips I do with Pete. Me and Pete have built a fantastic relationship over the last 12 months which has had a great impact on my volunteering. The shifts are so much fun and we have lots of giggles. I do enjoy walking outside on Greeter shifts and talking/engaging with people in the city and helping them where needed.

How have you personally benefitted? Being a City Host Volunteer has helped with my confidence and getting out and about with a routine in place. I wear my uniform with pride. After Lockdown I had to start to build my confidence again to go out and volunteering really helped with this. I am proud of my city and I do love to be involved with the volunteer programme. I am part of a group and feel so involved that this makes me feel equal to others. I am proud when I put my blue jacket on when attending my regular shifts in the week and I know who I am. Volunteering has really made a massive impact and difference to me. Since becoming a volunteer, it has given me the boost to volunteer more and do brand new things.

What opportunities have you enjoyed? I really enjoyed attending the Godiva festival which involved wayfinding and talking to people attending the event. When attending MotoFest it was nice to see all the cars and walking around with other volunteers. My favourite is the Greeters, I like speaking with people in the city and engaging with others and attending the coffee mornings.

These opportunities impacted on my decision to continue my journey as I love to see all City Hosts on shifts and talking and guiding the public.

3 things being a City Host makes me feel- Happy, Helpful and Involved.