My placement at 300 Blankets has been incredibly eye-opening. As someone interested in pursuing a career within the humanitarian and NGO sectors, I wanted to gain practical experience and a better understanding of what working within a community organisation looks like. Through this placement, I’ve gained valuable knowledge, met people from different walks of life and developed a deeper appreciation for the work that goes into supporting people experiencing or at risk of homelessness.
One of my biggest takeaways is that while people experiencing homelessness may be going through incredibly difficult circumstances, they still have full lives, relationships and stories outside of their current situation. Through the Outreach program, I’ve spoken with people who have recently had children, people who still regularly connect with their families, and people who are going through a particularly difficult period in their lives. These conversations have challenged some of my previous assumptions about homelessness and reminded me how quickly circumstances can change. For anyone considering a placement at 300 Blankets, the opportunity to engage with people directly is one of the most valuable aspects of the experience. It has made me more aware of the importance of approaching people without assumptions and has also made me more grateful for the things I often take for granted.
From an organisational perspective, I have been inspired by how efficiently 300 Blankets operates. The fact that the organisation has been run entirely by volunteers for so long is particularly impressive. It is clear that the people involved genuinely care about what they do, and it has been inspiring to see the time and effort they put into keeping everything running smoothly and developing new initiatives. For students interested in community and NGO work, the placement also provides insight into the practical work behind delivering these services, from supporting programs like Outreach and Soul Kitchen to understanding the coordination and teamwork required to sustain them.
It has been a pleasure getting to know the people within the organisation, from the volunteers I’ve met regularly at Outreach and Soul Kitchen to the hardworking team behind the scenes who make sure everything operates effectively. Veronica, in particular, has been a guiding presence every step of the way. Everyone has been welcoming and willing to share their experiences, which has made it easier to feel included and contributed to a really valuable placement experience.
If you’re a student considering a placement with 300 Blankets, I would encourage you to take the opportunity. You’ll gain practical experience, learn more about the realities of community-led support and have the chance to connect with people whose experiences may challenge the way you see the world. My time at 300 Blankets has reinforced the importance of approaching people with empathy, staying open to learning and recognising the positive impact a committed community can have.
