Teen volunteer spends lockdown helping at Fleetwood food bank and Carleton school

14-year-old Lewis Richmond, a Baines High School pupil, approached Fleetwood Town Community Trust when schools closed to ask how he could use his spare time to volunteer.

He started by volunteering at Fleetwood food bank, which was coordinated by Fleetwood Together to provide vulnerable members of the community with food.

Lewis said: "I spent three weeks preparing the food donations and helping with deliveries at the food bank.

"I really wanted to help and support the vulnerable members of our community at such a scary time, and it felt so rewarding to be able to make a positive difference to someone’s day."

After volunteering at the food bank, Lewis decided to dedicate more of his time to helping young people.

He helped with the summer holidays sports clubs at Carleton Green Community Primary School, supporting Fylde coast children aged between five and 11 as they tried new sports and activities.

"I really enjoyed my time volunteering with the sports camps," Lewis continued.

"I was a bit worried at first about fitting in, but the coaches treated me like a member of staff and made me feel really involved.

"It was definitely challenging at the start, as I have never worked with children before, but it became so much easier as my confidence grew. I’ve learnt lots of new skills, and I’m much more patient now than I was before.

"If anyone is considering volunteering, I would encourage them to go ahead and do it. You’ll boost your skills across a range of areas, and it will help you discover what you’re good at and what you enjoy.

"I’m so grateful to the Community Trust for providing me with this wonderful opportunity, and if the chance ever arises again, I would love do some more volunteering with them."

As well as gaining new skills and boosting his confidence, Lewis learned from industry professionals as they coached the children - and is now considering this as a career

option when he leaves school.

Matt Hilton, chief executive of the Community Trust said: "Lewis has done a great job throughout his time volunteering with the Trust, and I wish him all the luck in his future volunteering endeavours.

"Even though he’s stepped out of his comfort zone and tried something new, he’s been so enthusiastic, which is a key quality when working within the community."