THE VALUE OF VOLUNTEERING – MEET JULIA
Our 2,800-plus volunteers come from all walks of life. Equally there are thousands of different reasons for volunteering with us.
Julia at NCI Folkestone fits volunteering into her busy home and work life. She says the best part is the people and being on watch, which she describes as ‘like mindfulness but with binoculars’. We caught up with her for #VolunteersWeek to find out her views on the value of volunteering.
1. How did you first become aware of NCI?
I first properlydiscovered NCI last spring when I caught a feature on the TV show, Countryfile. I’d often passed the National Coastwatch station in Folkestone while out walking my dog but, truthfully, had no idea what actually went on in there. Turns out, it’s far more than just a lovely view and some very smart uniforms!
2. Have you any previous maritime experience?
It might not count as “proper” sea legs, but I did spend a couple of years working on cruise ships. It was a fantastic way to see the world (once I got over the seasickness!).
3. What is/was your line of work?
I’ve worked in the veterinary profession for over 25 years and I’m still going strong! For the last 8 years I’ve moved away from clinical work and into a different side of the industry, but animals are still very much a part of my day-to-day. Before this, I was in the travel industry, which included two years at sea on cruise ships.
4. What made you decide to volunteer?
Over the past few years, quite a few things in my work and personal life shifted, and I found myself looking for something new—a way to feel like me again, meet new people, and do something meaningful. When I came across NCI, it just felt like the right fit at the right time.
5. Have you volunteered with other organisations?
With a hectic work schedule and raising two sons, I never really had the time for regular volunteering before. But I help out at parkrun and junior parkrun whenever I can—and I always leave with a smile (and sometimes muddy trainers).
6. What do you like most about volunteering with NCI?
It’s got to be the people. I’ve met such a wide range of characters on watch—people I’d never have crossed paths with otherwise—and hearing their stories is just fascinating. Plus, there’s something incredibly peaceful about staring out at the sea for four hours while staying switched-on and alert. It’s like mindfulness… but with binoculars.
7. Are your family and friends supportive?
At first, my family were a bit concerned I was taking on too much—especially with all the work travel I do. But now they can see how much I get out of it and how it helps me unwind, they’re fully on board. The biggest fan? Definitely the dog. She’s thrilled she’s discovered a new stop on her walks where she can charm her way to a biscuit!
8. What are your other hobbies and interests?
Anything involving the sea instantly calms me—just listening to water is my happy place. Outside of NCI, I spend time with my lovely (and rather furry) household—one dog, two cats, and a small herd of guinea pigs. I also love keeping active, whether that’s at the gym, running, or cycling. Basically, if I’m not moving or near water, I’m probably napping.
If you’d like to volunteer with us, it’s easy to apply and you don’t need any maritime experience as all training is provided:
Find out more: Volunteering – National Coastwatch