I started volunteering with Essex Pedal Power (EPP) Harwich and Dovercourt in October 2023 as a bike build volunteer. 

I really enjoy building bikes and actually built my own EPP bike, which has given me my own wheels to get out and about on.  I’ve attended many of the led and group rides.  I love to get involve at the giveaways by helping to lift saddles and affix bike locks to the frames, and I’ve taken part in the confidence riding courses.

I like to volunteer as this helps me keep active and got me out of the house in between my college course and then whilst I was looking for work.  I find that volunteering gives me routine and motivation in the morning. I am passionate about helping others which is why I wanted to build these bikes.  I have built a lot of new skills doing this.

And the best news is that I have now got a working placement at Penguin books in the warehouse. EPP volunteering really helped me to get this job.