30 July 2025
BS is a 38-year-old volunteer who brings real lived-experience to his role at ROADS. Having overcome his own challenges with both drug and alcohol use, he now gives his time to help others feel seen, supported, and motivated.
BS has been volunteering at ROADS for 10 months, and has also spent over three years volunteering with Project 6. His passion for this work comes from a strong belief in people’s ability to change.
My motivation around volunteering within this sector is based on the understanding and the belief that everyone can make positive changes, and I enjoy being part of making the difference to someone wanting to make them.
BS currently supports both the Opiate Team at Carson House and the Shared Care Team based at The Gate Surgery. He works alongside recovery workers, offering peer support to clients and helping to make recovery feel more relatable and less intimidating.
He plays a vital role in promoting harm reduction, recovery groups, and access to support across the wider Rotherham recovery community.
There have been occasions where clients have not wanted to engage with groups however, I feel that by speaking with them and breaking down the barriers reducing stigma has been positive. Some clients have since attended the groups.
One example of BS’s work came when a client disclosed a dental issue that was causing pain but felt too overwhelming to sort out alone. BS stepped in and helped make it manageable:
The client attended a shared care appointment with his recovery worker where I was supporting. The client was experiencing severe toothache and did not have a dentist. I assisted the client by arranging an appointment for a mobile dentist van at Shiloh, arranging with him to meet and support him to attend and receive the treatment needed. The client gave me positive feedback about how this removed a worry for him and continues to engage with his worker.
Like many volunteers, BS has faced some emotional challenges, especially when supporting clients with similar stories to his own. But he’s committed to learning and growing through reflection and team support.
I recognise that I experience challenges when a client has a similar story/background to mine. However, I seek support with my team and debrief. And learn from each experience.
BS has completed a range of training through ROADS, including Trauma Awareness, Safe & Effective Practice, and Alcohol Awareness, and continues to take part in eLearning to build his skills. He’s also been recognised by his team, and recently received a Volunteer Award in 2025.
I really enjoy my role. At this current time, my main focus is continuing to develop within my volunteering role and accept any learning which will benefit me. I hope to one day work in the substance misuse sector.
Interested in volunteering at WithYou?
Find out how you can get involved and make a difference.
