4Sight volunteer Jean HallAs part of our recent AGM, several of our volunteers were recognised for their outstanding work and contribution to 4Sight Vision Support, with five of them presented with a ‘Volunteer of the Year Award’. One of those volunteers was Jean Hall and she has given us an insight into her work as a volunteer and how she came to 4Sight Vision Support.


‘I volunteer for 4Sight Vision Support as it gets me out of the house and enables me to use skills I have gained over many years of working in other charities and organisations.

When I moved to West Sussex I did not have a job and looked around for a voluntary job that might lead to paid employment.  I volunteered originally for the Russell Hotel in Bognor Regis and whilst doing that role, I heard of 4Sight Vision Support and made enquiries with them.

I was given a warm welcome and was soon helping in numerous ways in the office. I also helped in the resource centre, as I had knowledge of visual impairment both with myself and family, as well as working with other charities that support people with sight problems.

After three years, I was offered paid employment with one of the Rehabilitation Officers for the Visually Impaired (ROVI), working with him for three and a half years until I retired. After this, I started volunteering again and was gladly welcomed back.

Since I retired, I come into the office twice a week and undertake administration tasks including answering the telephone, reception duties, entering information onto the computer system as well as helping with people visiting the centre.  I help any department that needs something doing, whether that is stuffing envelopes or making tea.  Due to my previous knowledge I am able to help in the resource centre if they are busy as well.

Much to my surprise I was, this year, given ‘The Volunteer of the Year Award’ at the AGM being described as ‘a good all-rounder’ by other members of staff. It is nice to feel that my time is appreciated.’

If you’re interested in volunteering with 4 Sight, see our Volunteering page for more information or call us on 01243 828555.