‘I Know More Than I Thought!’ by Dillon, Peer Researcher
Hello, I’m Dillon, and I’m thrilled to share my journey as a peer researcher at NatCen. I embarked on this adventure to connect with diverse communities across the UK and to broaden my horizons through travel. Through my involvement, I’ve encountered many wonderful people and found our training sessions to be incredibly insightful. It was a revelation to discover just how much I knew already, eliminating any initial intimidation I felt.
Our team consists of 12 dedicated peer researchers, and our mission is to document and comprehend the experiences of young volunteers, delving into their motivations and the benefits they derive from volunteering. Crucially, we aim to enhance their volunteering experiences. In addition to conducting interviews, we engage in various activities like attending research conferences.
Participating in this project has enriched me with valuable research methods and skills essential for effective data collection and analysis. By the end of this research, I hope to have honed my teamwork skills and empathy towards diverse situations. Such skills are pivotal and will undoubtedly aid me in future endeavors, be it academic or professional.
When opportunities like this come my way, I seize them with enthusiasm, and I wholeheartedly recommend others to do the same!
Explore why volunteering is impactful with Dillon’s insights
Discover Fareeda’s perspective on volunteering
Meet our young researchers ready to make a difference
Understand the varied meanings of volunteering with Jon
Stay updated with the latest v evaluation news
Learn how young volunteers are shaping the Team v programme
What's Changed Since Then
The volunteering landscape in the UK has transformed significantly. Digital platforms now make it easier than ever to find, apply for, and track volunteering. Vinspired offers AI-powered opportunity matching, verified digital certificates, and a portable impact profile that follows you through education and into employment. The mission remains the same — connecting people with causes they care about — but the tools are better than ever.
For Students Today
If you're a student looking to strengthen your UCAS application or CV, Vinspired is built for you. Schools and colleges across the UK use Vinspired to manage student volunteering, with group management, safeguarding-friendly workflows, and verified impact records that UCAS and employers recognise.
Discover more: explore volunteering opportunities | build valuable skills.
