Spotlight On - Janet Cooper

Janet began her volunteering journey after being diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis in 2003. She managed to continue working in a factory for approximately 18 months after her diagnosis, during which time her employer offered her a great deal of support. However, the physical demands of the job eventually became too much, and she had to make the difficult decision to leave.

After a few months, Janet decided to explore volunteering opportunities and, through the Job Centre, found a suitable position with Capability Scotland, working in their charity shop in Bathgate. The role was initially meant to last for six months, but she enjoyed it so much that she stayed for five years. When her health began to deteriorate, she made the difficult choice to take a break from volunteering.

After taking two years off to rest and attend various hospital appointments, Janet decided to give volunteering another try. She visited Voluntary Sector Gateway, who helped her find a suitable role. Janet completed the required training and joined West Lothian Council's Advice Shop in 2014 as a Disability Benefits Volunteer. She really enjoyed this position and continued in the role for five years.

During this time, a friend told her about volunteering with the Macmillan Cancer Information and Support Service. As this was an area she was particularly interested in—especially as her father had received such excellent care during his cancer journey—Janet decided to learn more. She felt that volunteering with Macmillan would be a meaningful way to give something back. She liked the sound of the Information and Support Volunteer role and successfully applied.

At the time, Janet was also volunteering with Chest, Heart & Stroke Scotland, but she knew she couldn't manage all three roles without affecting her health. She therefore made the difficult decision to step back from her Disability Benefits role. After completing the Macmillan training, Janet had the opportunity to shadow experienced volunteers and staff before beginning her new role in the hubs in 2018.

Janet says the Macmillan role is very different from both her previous positions but finds it extremely rewarding. She enjoys helping people directly affected by cancer, as well as supporting their family members, friends, and carers. Volunteers in the hubs offer emotional support, signpost people to relevant services, arrange benefit checks, and provide a listening ear.

Janet admits she was nervous when she first applied to become a Disability Benefits Volunteer, but she says the training and shadowing opportunities gave her the confidence to perform the role to the best of her ability. She describes the training as excellent, with friendly and approachable trainers, and appreciates the ongoing learning opportunities available to volunteers.

One of the things Janet values most about volunteering is the flexibility. She can choose times that suit her health and energy levels and focus on roles that don't require too much physical effort. As fatigue is one of the symptoms of MS, there are times she's unable to attend a session. However, she says that staff and fellow volunteers are very understanding and recognise that taking a short rest can often prevent longer absences.

Janet enjoys helping people in any way she can. Although her roles with Macmillan and Chest, Heart & Stroke Scotland are very different, she finds both extremely fulfilling. She feels her volunteering roles are perfectly suited to her, allowing her to manage her MS while staying active and engaged. Janet also says that volunteering has greatly improved her mental well-being—and she would recommend it to anyone.