As we celebrate Volunteers’ Week (1 – 7 June 2026), Niamh’s story shows how volunteering in a supportive and inclusive community can build confidence, skills and friendships.
Role Play Lane is a play centre and community hub based in Llantwit Fardre. The organisation supports children, parents and families through play-based learning that promotes education, confidence and wellbeing
After receiving a Volunteering Wales Grant, Role Play Lane were able to expand their volunteer offer with training, Tempo Time credits, and financial support for travel.
The hub focused on empowering neurodiverse individuals and those with disabilities to volunteer and develop confidence and independence in a supportive community setting. It allowed them to support people like Niamh, a 23-year-old volunteer at Role Play Lane who has Down’s syndrome.
NIAMH’S STORY
Before joining the centre, Niamh had limited opportunities to develop work-related skills in a supportive community setting. Role Play Lane gave Niamh the chance to learn, build social connections and feel a sense of purpose in a safe and inclusive environment.
She took part in structured volunteering tasks including supporting café activities, working alongside staff and volunteers, interacting with children and families, and getting used to following routines and responsibilities. Over time, she became a more confident communicator, and more independent.
Niamh said:
‘I love doing work. Everyone makes me happy and very welcome. I feel happy working with new things, especially in the café. The staff and I love learning. Everyone is like my family.’
Niamh’s confidence continued to grow, and so did her self-esteem, shown through her willingness to try new tasks and interact with others. Niamh’s mum glowingly described the changes she saw at home and in everyday life:
‘My daughter’s life has been so fulfilled since she joined Role Play Lane. I’ve noticed how grown up she has become, taking on responsibilities at home and in work. She’s come on in leaps and bounds.’
Niamh’s journey highlights how volunteering can create pathways to employability, self-reliance and wellbeing for people who may not otherwise have the opportunity. As her mum summarised:
‘Thank you so much for giving her the chance of independence.’
FIND OUT MORE
Volunteers’ Week is an annual UK-wide campaign held from the first Monday in June to celebrate and recognise the contributions of volunteers. Find out more about how you can celebrate here.
Want to Volunteer? Find an opportunity near you.
Interested in our Volunteering Wales Grants? Read more and apply.