Stacey's Story

Stacey is a Senior Early Years Practitioner with 17 years of experience in Early Years Education and a BA in Childhood Practice. She currently works within a school nursery. Stacey joined Early Intervention as a volunteer in March 2024 and quickly became an invaluable member of our team. As a community group shaped by lived experience, her professional knowledge and experience have helped strengthen the opportunities we provide for children and families. For the past two years, Stacey has generously volunteered throughout every school holiday. Without volunteers like Stacey, many of the activities, events and experiences our families enjoy simply would not be possible. Meet Nicolas Stacey is pictured with Nicolas, whose family has been part of our community since our very first session in February 2022. Over the past four years, Nicolas and his family have attended countless activities and events and become a much-valued part of our Early Intervention community. Nicolas brings a calm and gentle presence to our group, and it has been an absolute privilege to watch him grow in confidence and develop new skills. The smile captured in this photograph is one we know well. It is the smile that greets us as Nicolas walks through the door — excited to see his friends, take part in activities and make new memories.

Stacey Shared: I’m incredibly grateful to volunteer with a charity that provides activities for children and young people in an inclusive environment that celebrates everyone as individuals. The impact of these opportunities goes far beyond a few days of fun. They help build confidence, create friendships, encourage independence and give young people the chance to try new experiences in a supportive environment.

For me, volunteering is a privilege. The children inspire me every day with their resilience, kindness and unique personalities. Seeing their smiles, achievements and growing confidence is a reminder of why inclusive opportunities are so important. I’m proud to play a small part in something that makes such a positive difference to so many children, young people and their families. I have met many incredible individuals through my volunteering, and I’ve made friendships that I know will last a lifetime.

I’ve also been fortunate to learn new skills and work alongside a wide range of professionals and specialists, gaining knowledge and experience that I’ve been able to bring back to my role in Early Years Education. This has helped me better support children and reinforced the importance of creating inclusive opportunities where every child can thrive.

Volunteering has given me far more than I could ever give in return, and I’m grateful to be part of something that makes such a positive difference to so many families. "