Ava, a member of the Walsingham House team, recently spoke to the Grounds Volunteers about why they choose to volunteer for the Youth Service.

Volunteering remains one of the ways individuals can give back to society, not only by supporting those in need but by strengthening community bonds. As a member of the youth retreat team at Walsingham House at Abbotswick, I see this impact first hand through the dedication of our ‘Grounds Volunteers,’ whose work supports both the environment and the wider community.

Located in Navestock Side, Brentwood, Walsingham House is the diocesan youth retreat centre, working alongside the Brentwood Catholic Youth Service (BCYS). Together we provide faith filled retreats for thousands of young people each year.

The retreat centre itself has a long history, beginning over 60 years ago in Chingford before moving to Canvey Island in 1995. In 2018 it moved again and found its current home at Abbotswick, bringing together this established youth ministry with the site’s earlier role as a House of Prayer. This rich heritage continues to shape the experience offered to young people today.

A key part of life here includes our ‘community day’ where staff, the volunteer team and grounds volunteers gather. The day begins with Mass in the Chapel followed by time to share tea, coffee, and conversation.

Recently, I spoke with a few of the grounds volunteers to better understand why they volunteer and why, specifically, at Walsingham House. A clear theme emerged: volunteering offers both purpose and connection. Many of them described gaining “a sense of doing something valuable” with their time, while appreciating the friendship and camaraderie it brings. For retired volunteers, it creates meaningful opportunities to build relationships across the diocese.

For the grounds volunteers, a typical day involves working outdoors, maintaining the grounds through trimming, pruning and even daffodil planting, to help create a safe, welcoming space for young people. Volunteers described it as “a nice relaxing day in the open air” reflecting the friendly atmosphere that defines their experience.

In conversation with our grounds volunteers, the message became clear: no experience needed – just a willingness to get involved. At Walsingham House, their contribution is more than just practical, their work is what helps to create a welcoming supportive environment where young people can grow in confidence and faith. Their work is a reminder of the lasting difference even a small act of service can make.