How to look after yourself as a Food Waste Hero

Being a Food Waste Hero can be extremely rewarding, but it's essential to prioritise your well-being while volunteering with Olio. Here are some tips to ensure your volunteering experience remains enjoyable and fulfilling:


Understand Your Commitment

  1. Volunteer Willingly 🆓: Remember, volunteering is voluntary. You have the freedom to stop at any time without needing to provide a reason. If you're currently assigned to a collection slot and wish to stop, please unassign yourself on the Volunteer Hub.
  2. Know the Role 🤔: Make sure you fully understand what the volunteering role involves before committing. Feel free to ask fellow Olioers on the Olio forum about their experiences.

Manage Your Time

  1. Set Limits ⏳: Ensure that volunteering does not take up more time than you're comfortable with. Balance is key to a sustainable and enjoyable experience.
  2. Take Breaks 🛌: It’s okay to take breaks! Whether you need a week off or even three weeks, it's perfectly fine. Make sure to indicate on the Volunteer Hub that you're taking a break so someone else can cover your slot.

Reflect and Communicate

  1. Regular Reflection 🤔: Reflect on your volunteering experience regularly. If something feels off, talk to your Squad Captain or contact Olio with your feedback. Consider pausing until any issues are resolved.
  2. Seek Support 🆘: If you find yourself becoming overly dependent on your volunteering activities, seek support from your local GP or other professional services. Also, talk to us if the idea of stopping volunteering makes you uncomfortable.

Set Boundaries

  1. Personal Boundaries 🚧: When interacting with other Olioers, set clear boundaries. Avoid sharing your contact details or address unless necessary and always follow the FWH safe sharing guidelines. Communicate your expectations clearly and think about your personal safety rules.
  2. Report Issues 🚨: Report any Olioers who break community guidelines or misbehave in any way. Maintaining a safe and respectful community is crucial.

Enjoy the Experience

  1. Have Fun 😊: Enjoy the experience of helping others. Volunteering can be incredibly rewarding, bringing you many smiles and heartfelt 'Thank you!'s. Savor these moments!

By following these tips, you can ensure your time as a Food Waste Hero is both meaningful and enjoyable. Thank you for your dedication to reducing food waste and making a positive impact in your community!

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