For Black History Month 2026, a variety of Global Majority United Reformed Church (URC) ministers, members, and employees share their personal perspectives around this year’s theme of “Honouring Communities”.
In this reflection, Veronica Daniel, Administrator for Global & Intercultural Church and Public Issues, reflects on her volunteering experience:
Supporting Westminster Council’s Home-Start Group as a Family Support Volunteer, means a lot to me.
I started just after the pandemic, when charity funding had been drastically cut. Many charities needed urgent help engaging with their communities, and as I had experience working as an Outreach Co-ordinator and missed working directly with people, I put myself forward. I remembered how rewarding it felt to help someone who needed guidance and support navigate difficult times. Now, I support families with young children to negotiate their challenges.
Volunteering with Home-Start has been the most valuable experience. It has helped me develop a better understanding of the challenges that families are facing today; enabled me to offer them a space of understanding, emotional support and listening without judgement. I help them engage with issues such as disability, domestic violence, sexual abuse, suicide, addiction and past trauma. Through this I have learned to be patient, understanding, sympathetic and supportive, and respectful of each family’s individual circumstances.
I remember when I was given my first case. It was very complex and difficult. I felt nervous initially; wanting to do a good job in supporting the family appropriately and professionally. As I got to know them things became easier. I spent time building trust, listening, developing an understanding of their concerns, and getting them the help they needed. I received very positive feedback about how I had engaged, which was hugely encouraging.
The ability to listen without judgement is one of the most important skills needed in this field. In turn, the reward is seeing families gradually regain confidence, stability and a sense of direction in their lives. It is incredibly fulfilling to know that the support I give contributes to a variety of ways that can help families in overcoming their challenges and begin to move forward.
As I reflect on my volunteering journey, I recognise that it is a two-way street: I have felt very much appreciated by Home-Start for the time I dedicate each week as a volunteer. In turn, that recognition and support have made me feel valued and motivated to continue volunteering. Underpinning all of this, as a Christian I believe everyone should be treated with kindness, patience, respect and dignity. People should be shown compassion and given support wherever possible, within a safe, non-judgemental and trusting environment. I think this is where churches can play a meaningful part in supporting their communities.
1 John 3:18 says: “…Let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth.” For me, this verse highlights that true love is practical and active. It is not just about saying kind words, but the practical outworking of the words which can quietly transform lives, neighbourhoods, nations – and even the world. I hope I am playing even a small part in all of that.