The Early Years Partnership engages individuals in meaningful community roles. Daniel* is a man in his early 20s with autism and social anxiety. On the first meeting in April 2024, Daniel was rarely leaving his home due to anxiety, germophobia and other health issues. His family was eager to see him become more involved in the community to build connections and increase his independence. 

We took a walk around his neighbourhood, discussing various volunteering opportunities. Daniel wanted a role accessible by walking or a direct bus journey, to minimise the stress he associated with travelling. 

He showed interest in structured roles with routine tasks, which led us to the Redhill Park Café, a community café known for its supportive environment for volunteers who may need extra help. 

Challenge  

Daniel’s social anxiety and germophobia make it difficult for him to engage in new environments, especially a café setting.  

Solution 

Rachelle, the café coordinator, welcomed Daniel and discussed available roles. Given Daniel’s extreme germ phobia, working in a café was a significant challenge, but with support, he successfully engaged with his tasks.

To overcome these barriers, we took a step-by-step approach. Daniel was fully briefed about the roles and responsibilities at the café before a low-pressure trial session where he could familiarise himself with the environment. Rachelle’s understanding and flexibility were essential in creating a supportive space where Daniel could manage his anxiety. 

Daniel began volunteering once a week, focusing on tasks like restocking the fridge and food stands. This has been crucial to providing structure and routine that helps him build confidence. 

To ensure long-term success and encourage continued involvement in volunteering, regular check-ins with Daniel allow us to identify and address any issues early on, adjust as needed and provide reassurance and support. 

We have since linked Daniel with local organisations like SWARC (Specialist Independent College & Alternative Education Provider) and Bournemouth Gateway Club, which offer social activities and support to help build relationships outside of volunteering. 

As Daniel’s confidence grows, we will gradually introduce roles in more formal settings (such as Bournemouth Hospital), and more autonomous roles, while still providing necessary support. 

Results 

Daniel’s journey into volunteering has had positive effects on his well-being, the broader community, and the organisations involved. 

• His involvement at Redhill Park Café demonstrates that individuals with social anxiety and other challenges can make meaningful contributions when given the right support. It has also raised awareness among café staff and customers about inclusivity, fostering a more understanding and compassionate community environment. 

• A future role at Bournemouth Hospital will help reduce staff burdens by having Daniel assist with routine tasks, further benefiting the community by enhancing the quality of patient care.  

• The introduction of community-based volunteering with less supervision will help him move toward independent participation in broader community activities 

• Daniel’s presence as a volunteer with unique needs shows that volunteering opportunities can be flexible and adaptive, encouraging other individuals with similar challenges to participate in community roles. 

• Daniel has been given structure, routine, and a sense of purpose, contributing to an improvement in his social anxiety. His growing confidence in engaging with others inspires those around him.  

Daniel’s participation highlights the importance of creating accessible and inclusive volunteering opportunities. With the right support, individuals can contribute meaningfully to society, enriching their lives, the organisations they volunteer with and the wider community. 

*Not his real name.