Angela first got in touch with Charlie House last year, just as we were preparing for the festive season. From the moment we met, we knew we’d found someone special. She quickly became a familiar face across our Christmas calendar, and we’ve been lucky to have her by our side ever since.
If there’s one time of year that captures the spirit of community at Charlie House, it’s Christmas. From Santa’s magical Grotto at the Bon Accord Centre and the Santa Fun Run during Aberdeen’s annual Christmas Parade celebrations to our special Christmas Party held for supported children and families, the festive season is one of our busiest times of the year.
One thing is certain: it simply wouldn’t be possible without the incredible volunteers who give their time and heart to make it all happen.
As part of our Volunteers’ Week celebrations (2 to 8 June), we caught up with Angela to hear more about her story, what inspired her to get involved, and the moments that have stayed with her along the way.
How did you first get in touch with the volunteering team at Charlie House?
I took early retirement a couple of years ago, and after a big change in my personal life, I was looking for something meaningful to fill my days. One afternoon, I was at the Bon Accord Centre with my sister when we stopped by the ReCHarge Café. A volunteer served us coffee and told us a little about Charlie House, and I remember thinking, “I could do that!”
I noticed a poster on the café wall about volunteering and decided to get in touch by sending them an email. Not long after, I was invited to visit the Charlie House office to learn more about the charity and the opportunities available. From that moment, I just knew I had to be involved.
What was the first thing you got involved in as a new member of the team?
I started volunteering around Christmas time, so it had to be Santa’s Grotto at the Bon Accord Centre. As soon as the team told me about the opportunity, I was in. I couldn’t wait to get my Christmas costume on! I even roped in my sister Clare, who’s full of energy and loves getting creative with her outfits. Now she’s just as involved as I am, if not more!
Volunteers play such an important part in creating the Christmas magic. What were some of your favourite roles?
My favourite role was to be the elf on the door to Santa’s Grotto, welcoming children and families and helping set the scene for a magical visit. One little girl who visited the Grotto brought her toy elf with her, and when I called it by name, she was completely amazed. Her wee face just lit up!
I also helped at the dog-friendly version of Santa’s Grotto, ‘Santa Paws’, even though I’m a bit nervous around dogs! Clare and I dressed up as Dalmatians, got stuck in, and actually ended up really loving it.
Are there any moments at the Grotto that stood out for you?
One moment that stayed with me was when a man came in with a note for Santa, and you could see how much it meant to him. It reminded me just how special these events are, not only for children, but for people of all ages.
Another was meeting a 96-year-old great-grandmother who came to the grotto with her great-granddaughter and their dog. She told us Christmas had been difficult since she had lost her husband of 70 years, but the visit brought her real joy, and I feel proud to play a part in making that happen.
You’ve also been involved in some of our big events like the Ball and Fizz & Fashion. What was that like to be part of?
I helped with raffle tickets and the tombola at both events. At the Ball, I was paired with a volunteer named Eleanor, and we just clicked straight away. We had such a laugh and ended up becoming a bit of a double act at Charlie House.
The standout moment from Fizz & Fashion was definitely the fashion show. Watching the mums walk the runway with such confidence was incredibly powerful.
Has volunteering changed anything for you personally?
Absolutely. At a time when I really needed something, Charlie House gave me purpose. It’s taken my mind off things, but in a meaningful way. I truly feel like I’m part of something that matters.
What would you say to someone who’s thinking about getting involved?
Honestly, just try it! I recommend anyone who is interested to do what I did and get in touch and come in and speak to the Charlie House team. Once you hear about what the charity does, I don’t think you’ll walk away without wanting to be part of it. You get so much back from volunteering for a great cause. It’s genuinely enhanced my life.
Any final thoughts heading into Volunteers’ Week?
Honestly, I feel like I’m the one who should be saying thank you. Volunteering with Charlie House is addictive in the best way. It’s a special place filled with the most amazing people.
Got a volunteering story to share, or want to thank someone who’s made a difference? Join the celebration this Volunteers’ Week this 2 – 8 July 2025 by tagging us on Facebook, Instagram or LinkedIn at @CharlieHouseHQ and using the hashtag #VolunteersWeek.
There are so many ways to support Charlie House. From giving your time as a volunteer, to attending events, taking on a fundraising challenge, or simply spreading the word. Find out more and get involved at www.charliehouse.org.uk/support-us
