As a parent volunteer, I helped to open a new unit

I really enjoy being part of our guiding team as a parent volunteer and I am proud to contribute in a small way to a fantastic Guide unit.

My daughter Bethan absolutely loved her time at Brownies, enjoying the wonderful mix of activities, and was very keen to continue in guiding. So we were pleased when the Leaders suggested setting up a new Guide unit that she could join.

One of the Leaders, Suzanne, organised a meeting to gauge interest in a new Guide unit and attract new helpers. I was keen to get involved, but I had no experience in guiding and so I didn't feel confident taking on a role during meetings. Like many parents, I had limited spare time, too.

Being Treasurer is perfect for me

Suzanne suggested I took on the Treasurer role, as I have a background in accounting, and it's perfect for me. In about 45 minutes a week I can record everything, check our online bank account, make payments bank cash and catch up with emails.

A couple of times each term I review the overall financial position and keep Suzanne up to date with any concerns or late payments. I also prepare a simple set of annual accounts and submit a Gift Aid claim. We get just over £400 a year by reclaiming Gift Aid on subscriptions and some fundraising income and it's been invaluable for buying extra equipment and subsiding events and so on.

The team is so supportive

The Unit Team is very supportive and inclusive. As Treasurer, I am invited to all the meetings and have even been encouraged to run a few Guide meetings. I do have an accounting background, but you don't need one to be a Treasurer; you just need to be comfortable with figures, organised and systematic.

I really enjoy being part of our guiding team as a parent volunteer and I am proud to contribute in a small way to a fantastic Guide unit.