She has previously taken part in a variety of water sports such as kayaking, canoeing and flat water rafting at the International Centre, but when given the opportunity to do white water rafting, she jumped at the chance. It was a really exciting day. We all met up at the centre and were given all of the correct equipment to get changed in to. This included a wet suit, buoyancy aid and helmet. We were then taken down to the rafts and given a briefing of the course and we practised some of the instructions that we would need to follow when on the course, such as, paddle forward, paddle back, get down, lean in and hold on. The water on the course was running at 4 q-mecs which made our run down very quick and bouncy.

The rafting was enjoyed by everyone. Katie asked when we would be doing it again as it was “very fun and exciting.”

Katie has also taken part in an outdoor climbing session which she did with Venture Out Cardiff and Boulders Climbing Centre this summer.

My main role as a volunteer has been to work alongside the Venture Out team in encouraging clients to participate and get the most out of activities. During my time volunteering I’ve been able to witness the positive benefits being made to clients lives, both in terms of improving physical health and mental wellbeing. The noticeable difference being made is thanks to the welcoming community feel each Venture Out project fosters which greatly boosts the self-confidence of clients and encourages them to come back.

It has also been great to see the team at Venture Out actively empowering clients by allowing them to decide how their own events are run, with service users regularly choosing the route to take on the Bute Park walk, or deciding what horse they want to ride during visits to Cardiff Riding School.

My commitment to Venture Out has not only demonstrated to me how ‘vulnerable’ individuals can be empowered to reach their full potential, I have also been able to develop close bonds with service users and fellow volunteers alike, making volunteer ‘work’ feel more like a friendly get together in the park! The experience has made me think about choosing a different career path, and I am now waiting to start work for Innovate Trust after accepting a support worker position with the company.

Richard Boyd

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