Preventing people falling through the cracks of the public health system is what motivates Filling the Gap volunteer, Victoria Mitchell. Growing up with little access to dental health care Ms Mitchell knows first-hand how difficult it can be to overcome barriers which can stop people accessing treatment they need. “I believe programs like Filling the Gap are play a great role in helping people that may otherwise miss out on dental treatment,” she said. Ms Mitchell volunteered at two clinics in 2020 and sees her time as a real learning experience.
“This is a great opportunity to do something valuable with my time and skills,” she said. “I believe many people become accustomed to their routine and Filling the Gap is a way for us to see all kinds of people, with different stories and many clinical cases that we otherwise wouldn’t be exposed to,” she said. “I feel great learning new things while helping people at the same time. It’s really a privilege to participate and be a part of Filling the Gap. It’s a wonderful program. “The patients are so grateful and it’s a very wholesome feeling to share in.” Anyone considering volunteering their skills will not regret it, says Ms Mitchell. “You’re not only helping others by providing your skills but you’re helping yourself to learn and grow,” she said.
“You’re not only helping others by providing your skills but you’re helping yourself to learn and grow,” she said.