We are a small friendly team, who are enthusiastic about all things volunteering! If you’re interested in volunteering, or have any queries please do contact us and chat to a member of the team.

 

 

Kirstie Brown – Volunteer Commissioning Manager

Kirstie has worked for Somerset Council for 25 years, primarily as a youth worker, manager and trainer. During this time, Kirstie spent a lot of time working with volunteers. She believes in the benefits of volunteering, both for the organisation, the public and the volunteer themselves. Kirstie feels very lucky that her job is something that she is passionate about. Kirstie herself is a regular volunteer for a local mental health charity. In her spare time she enjoys cats, nail art and being sociable.

 

 

Brenda Fowler – Volunteer Support Officer

Brenda has been recruiting and supporting volunteers for 9 years in the Somerset area in a wide variety of different services. Brenda says ‘Volunteers are vital to the local communities and provide so much support for people in many ways. Sometimes, we see people start to transform their lives through volunteering. It’s a great feeling knowing I’ve played a very small part in that’. Brenda is a cat lover and has two cats (Storm and Twitch) who are more like children but Brenda is not the “cat lady”.

 

 

Jennifer Oliver – Volunteer Support Officer

Jenny joined the Central Volunteer Team in 2022 having previously worked in a variety of roles within the heritage sector and completing her MRes in Art History.  Jenny believes in being the change that you want to see in the world, and that every effort no matter how small can make the biggest difference. Jenny loves her job and all the amazing people that she meets along the way. She spends her free time out exploring with friends, whether it be her local area or further afield, and supporting her local music scene.

 

 

 

 

Jenifer Street – Volunteer Coordinator

Jeni has experience both as a volunteer and working in roles recruiting and supporting volunteers. She began volunteering over 20 years year ago and recognises the various demands volunteers may be juggling but is a strong advocate for the benefits of volunteering – both for the volunteer and the local community. In her spare time she loves to get out and enjoy walks with her dog or meeting up with family and friends.

 

 

 

Jeff Brown – Service Manager Stronger Communities

Jeff worked in Somerset Council Children Services for over 20 years before moving into Public Health.

He has a background in youth work and community development, and has supported voluntary organisations throughout his career. He firmly believes the Stronger Communities work should improve and join up support for voluntary and community organisations across the council and wider public sector.

In his spare time he’s a trustee for Samaritans and motor club treasurer as well as being an active motorsport competitor.

You can contact the team by calling us on 01823 359200 or by completing this form.