We are proud to be a volunteer-led organisation, where the number of volunteers outweighs the number of employees.
Currently, we have a dedicated team of 12 active volunteers who play a vital role in helping us reach more people and expand our services. These volunteers assist with a range of tasks, including:
- Running events
- Roasting coffee
- Maintenance and upkeep
- Deliveries
- Administrative support
- Day-to-day operations
Much of the direction of our outreach and support initiatives is shaped by the personal journeys and experiences of our veteran, ex-uniformed, and ex-offender volunteers.
Our volunteers bring a wealth of lived experience and insight to our work, and their voices are integral in shaping the services we provide. They are all actively involved in shaping our 2025 three-year business strategy.
We’ve seen firsthand the incredible impact that volunteering has on both individuals and communities. Not only does it offer a sense of purpose, but it also helps volunteers develop new skills, build confidence, and form connections with others who share similar experiences.
Our approach is unique in that there is a clear continuum from beneficiary to volunteer—and sometimes, even to employee.
When someone comes to us for support, many find themselves taking on a volunteer role as part of their journey.
For some, volunteering is the first step towards re-entering the workforce. And in some cases, volunteers transition to paid employment with us, providing them with a supportive environment to build confidence before re-entering the mainstream job market.
Matt’s Story
Matt joined Combat2Coffee after being medically discharged from the police after 22 years of service. Like many veterans of uniformed services, Matt struggled with the loss of structure, camaraderie, and most importantly, his sense of purpose.
Physically and emotionally drained, he found himself in a dark place, worrying his wife and teenage daughters. That’s when he turned to Combat2Coffee.
Matt said:
“After saving a man’s life, my own world turned upside down in 2019. I injured myself in the process, leading to two neck surgeries. The pain was unbearable, and my mental health started to crack.
“By Easter 2021, I was at my lowest point, struggling with chronic pain syndrome, complex PTSD, severe depression, and anxiety.
“Nigel, whom I have known for over 35 years, had reached out to me a few times and wanted to meet up for a coffee. Eventually when I was able to do so, I left the house and went to Comabt2Coffee HQ to meet him. That was the day when my life started to feel real again.
“I cannot thank Nigel enough for the opportunity to be part of a team once more. I now volunteer one day a week, and even though that’s all I can manage at the moment, I’m always treated as a valued member of the team.
“I now have a reason to get up and go to work, feeling needed and surrounded by like-minded people, some of which have their own struggles.”
Danny’s Story
After spending a long period of time in prison, Danny faced the overwhelming challenge of reintegrating into society. The process of being released wasn’t easy—he struggled to adjust, battling serious issues with alcohol and drugs. But meeting Nigel four years ago and being introduced to Combat2Coffee changed everything.
Since joining as a volunteer, he is now in paid employment and is training as an electrician.
Danny said:
“I have been involved with Combat2Coffee for four years now.
As an ex-offender and long-term prisoner, I couldn’t cope with release. I had serious drink and drug problems, but since being involved with Comabt2Coffee, my life has gone in a new direction.
“I volunteer regularly, spending most of my time roasting coffee and helping with maintenance around the unit.
“I really enjoy being involved and it has probably saved my life.”
Every hour that someone gives us means that we can help more people to improve their wellbeing.
Together, we can change lives one sip at a time.
If you would like to volunteer for us, please email hello@combat2coffee.co.uk
