We are delighted to welcome Caroline Saunders who joined the Different Strokes family this month as our new Group Network Co-ordinator. Caroline will be the main point of contact for the volunteers who manage our 40+ local groups across the UK. We thought you might want to know a little more about Caroline.

“Prior to joining Different Strokes, I worked for Thames Valley Police for 14 years based at Milton Keynes Police Station. Predominately my career in the Police was as a Volunteer Co-ordinator working with both uniformed and nonuniformed volunteers. In my role I had the opportunity to meet,and work with, truly inspirational people whose passion and drive for volunteering never ceased to amaze me.

Some of the highlights of my career include volunteer support for the 2012 Olympics at Dorney Lake, supporting volunteers on their road to recovery when they have experienced a life changing event, and developing Employer Supported Policing where organisations will allow paid leave to their staff for volunteering purposes.

Whilst I have not been affected by a stroke within my family, my husband had a heart attack in his mid-thirties when we had two young children. Because of this I do understand the journey within a family unit when illness strikes and the long road to recovery that follows. We were lucky in that my husband’s employer was incredibly supportive, not just of my husband but the whole family, and we also had access to a local charity that provided support and a safe environment for exercise for heart attack survivors. Because of this I truly understand how important charities such as Different Strokes are, and fully appreciate the difference that can be made knowing there are others out there who understand what you are going through.

I am a huge Strictly Come Dancing fan and enjoy attending Ballroom dancing classes with my husband every week. After taking part in a charity ‘fun’ run 2 years ago I have developed a love of running and was thrilled to get a ballot place in the London Landmarks Half Marathon in March next year. Not quite the London Marathon but it will be a challenge for me!

I am excited to join the team at Different Strokes as my heart lies in the world of volunteering and I have huge respect for the dedication, and commitment, of all volunteers whatever their contribution may be.”

You can find out more about your local group HERE.  If you would like to know more about establishing your own group please contact Caroline by clicking HERE.