The relationships we have with our colleagues, family and friends are central to our wellbeing.
Social support is the most important factor in our ability to be resilient and to bounce back when we encounter adversity in life.
Having people who care about us, and who we can ask for help, is the thing that protects us most when we’re exposed to potentially traumatic experiences. It can make the difference between resilience and injury and is a key part of your Protective Armour.
How much do you tell your family and friends about what happens in your volunteering role? Do you try to keep things separate? Perhaps you don’t want to worry them or share disturbing information?
There’s no right or wrong here. How much you talk about work is about personal choice and the different relationships we have.
It’s not unusual for volunteer responders to be in relationships with other responders and for generations of family members to volunteer for the organisation. While this can bring benefits of them understanding the role, it may bring challenges too, like the practicalities of juggling caring responsibilities or needing to live up to expectations.
Whatever your relationship situation, we know that volunteering as an emergency responder can have a huge impact on your personal and social network and that’s why we’ve created some resources just for them, Information for family, friends and other supporters
