Heather Hooper's experience of being part of the Volunteer Advisory Panel

Heather tells us about her experience as a dementia volunteer

Hello, My name is Heather Hooper, I have been a volunteer with the Alzheimer's Society for 10 years as a Dementia Friends ambassador raising awareness through a variety of ways, campaigning, fundraising and presenting Dementia Friends information sessions.  

I have lived experience of dementia through caring for my mum on her dementia journey. I am passionate about dementia and determined to make a difference. In addition, I support the Dementia Resource Centre in Peterborough with requests such as attending cheque presentations and more.

I have recently become the independent Chair of the Peterborough and Cambridgeshire dementia panel. A panel created by a local carer consisting of carers and professionals to shape a more inclusive and effective support pathway for people with dementia and their carers, within the region.  

How long have you been a member of the Volunteer Advisory Panel?

Three years. VAP members serve a period of three years. I joined in 2023, my term ends in January 2026.

The first year was about learning how the VAP operated within Alzheimer's Society and taking initial steps to join projects that interested me. The second year with more confidence taking up projects which included reviewing the Volunteer Guide, e-learning (content and presentation) and much more as well as representing the VAP on award or recruitment panels. These types of projects continued into the third year.

The panel is made up of volunteers supporting different areas of Alzheimer's Society and includes members with lived experience. 

It has been a privilege to work alongside everyone, particularly those who have dementia who are able to give us an insight on how dementia has impacted on them and the type of services and support the Society needs to ensure is available. All voices are heard.

What made you want to join VAP?

I was at the point of giving up volunteering when my Volunteer Manager encouraged me to apply for the VAP as she felt I would be able to “make a difference”. Not shy at coming forward. I trusted my role manager's judgement and applied and the rest is history; I have not looked back. 

It has been a fascinating journey into the inner core of the Society, working alongside like-minded people and more importantly, I know that in my term I have made a difference to the volunteer experience within the Society. Sadly my term has come to an end.

What would you say to someone who is considering joining the panel

If you want to make a difference to the role of the volunteer, this is the place to be.

As a member of VAP you are in a privileged position and party to all sorts of information. Volunteers for Alzheimer's Society are the ground workers and the face for the Society who need to feel confident they are supported effectively by the Society.

As a member of the VAP you are given opportunities to work alongside senior managers when they propose changes or introduce new policies and procedures. You can be involved with as many projects as you feel comfortable with.

You will receive support from the Culture and Engagement team throughout your term. You will have a dedicated VAP contact, receive training and a “buddy” to help ease you into the role. 

Staff will respect and listen to your contributions giving you feedback in return. The work is very rewarding.