Linda
Linda is the Team Leader at 16th Liverpool Girls’ Brigade. She joined around age 10 and has never left!
Why did you get involved with volunteering?
As I became older, I realised that GB offered so much to the girls. I like the idea that it looked at the whole person. For example, spiritual, physical, education and service. I wanted to pass on these things that helped me.
What are the best bits about being a Girls’ Brigade volunteer?
Being a part of a team that believes that God has called them to work for him. Maybe we are a different kind of missionary but I feel so privileged to be apart of so many girls and their families lives. I’m now seeing old girls bringing their own girls along.
Would you recommend volunteering to others?
Without a doubt. Each volunteer brings their own personality to the team. It doesn’t matter if you’re quiet or loud, each volunteer is part of a jigsaw that makes up a group. It can be hard going at times but the joy you get out of it is so rewarding.
Anna
Anna is a newly qualified assistant leader at 1st Dagenham who works as part of a team to support the n:vestigate and n:gage groups.
Why did you get involved with volunteering?
When I moved to a new area and started attending a new church, I learned that they had a Girls’ Brigade group. I hadn’t been involved in Girls’ Brigade before and didn’t know much about it, but when the church mentioned they were looking for more volunteers on Tuesday evenings; I decided to find out more. I was invited to come along one week to see how the evening ran, and I really enjoyed it. I loved the energy, the sense of community, and the way the group helps girls grow in confidence and faith.
What are the best bits about being a Girls’ Brigade volunteer?
One of the best parts is definitely getting to know the girls – building relationships with them and seeing how they grow in confidence over time. It’s great to watch them develop new skills through activities and badge work. There’s such a mix of ages and interests, which makes every session unique. Another really special part is sharing the Bible and helping them explore their faith in ways that make sense for their age and experience. Watching their understanding deepen and seeing them ask questions or make connections is really encouraging.
Would you recommend volunteering to others?
Definitely! If you enjoy spending time with children and young people. You get to support them as they learn new skills, grow in confidence, and explore their faith. It’s also a great way to be part of a supportive team where everyone brings their own strengths and experiences.
Jane
Jane has been working with n:gage girls at 1st Haverhill since becoming a young leader in 1970 and has also worked with n:counta and n:spire members. She supports and encourages her Team Leader in a variety of ways and after many years as District Team Leader, providing training for girls and leaders, she now gives guidance for the development of the young leaders at 1st Haverhill.
Why did you get involved with volunteering?
I was born into a Girls’ Brigade family in Norwich and started to attend when I was five years old. My Mum progressed through the ranks while I enjoyed the various activities in each section. After completing my young leader’s training I became a Christian and moved to Cambridge. I soon joined a local group to share my knowledge and skills. I went through leadership training and now have lifelong friendships in Girls’ Brigade.
What are the best bits about being a Girls’ Brigade volunteer?
I really value the opportunity we have to share the love of God through Jesus with our youngsters in everything we do. We have an excellent teaching programme with ideas for varied activities, learning, developing and having fun, and sharing with all our amazing girls! It’s also been a privilege to work alongside and develop relationships with Christian leaders nationally and locally.
Would you recommend volunteering to others?
Definitely yes! The variety of activities and friends of all ages is amazing, and I always gain so much from sharing time together.
Anabella
Annabella’s role is as a one-to-one volunteer at 2nd Billericay, supporting a girl with special needs during weekly sessions. Annabella works closely with her to help her feel included, build confidence, and fully take part in all the activities.
Why did you get involved with volunteering?
I grew up with Girls’ Brigade - most of my family has been involved for years, and I was a member myself for over a decade. Coming back as a volunteer feels like a privilege. Girls’ Brigade gave me so much growing up, and now it’s incredibly rewarding to give something back.
What are the best bits about being a Girls’ Brigade volunteer?
The best part is seeing the progress each week. The girl I support is growing in confidence and becoming more engaged in the activities. It’s such a joy to walk alongside her on her journey. I’m also proud to now be the kind of leader I looked up to when I was a girl in Girls’ Brigade — it feels like things have come full circle.
Would you recommend volunteering to others?
Absolutely! Girls’ Brigade is such a special place, and volunteering allows you to build amazing connections — both with the girls and the other leaders. It’s incredibly rewarding to know that you can make a real difference in these young people's lives.
