This week is volunteer week, and so today we meet Steve Marsden, our Website Management Volunteer at Action West London.
Hi Steve, tell us about who you are and what you do outside of volunteering for Action West London
I am a retired software developer and company director. From 1993 to 2015, I had my own software company developing and selling software to the construction industry. When I retired, I decided I wanted to give something back and decided to offer my services as a volunteer, either as a treasurer or as a website developer. I am the treasurer of the Manchester, Bolton and Bury Canal Society and have also developed the website. I have also developed websites for several Home-Start charities ( a family support charity ) around the UK, a youth football team in London, a premature baby support group, a hospital choir, and an overseas family support charity. In 2024, I was awarded Home-Start UK digital volunteer of the year in the 2024 Volunteer Awards for the whole of the UK. I have 3 children and have been married for 45 years. I like fishing, computer gaming and spending time with my family. I also play various musical instruments.
What inspired you to volunteer your website management skills specifically with Action West London? Was there a particular project or our focus on empowering the local community through employment and learning that drew you in?
There was a specific project, advertised on Reach Volunteering, for a new website for a new project, Action Talent, which was to be AWL’s own recruitment website. The project was completed, but it was ultimately decided not to go ahead with the project for other reasons. I was impressed with what AWL was doing to the extent that I wanted to stay involved, and so when the Action Talent project came to an end, I offered to stay on supporting and developing the other websites.
Could you describe the website management tasks you typically assist with at Action West London? What aspects of keeping our online presence running smoothly do you find most fulfilling?
The main AWL website was produced by external developers whom I worked with to help specify the technical requirements. I have supported the site and acted as the link between AWL staff and the developers. I have also developed the Acton Market and Market W3 websites, which I also now support. From a website developer’s point of view, its always fulfilling when users are happy with both the site and the subsequent ongoing support.
How crucial do you believe a user-friendly and up-to-date website is for a charity like Action West London in reaching and supporting the community? Have you seen any tangible benefits of your website work for our organisation?
I think it is crucial because in 2025, people expect a website and social media presence for any organisation they deal with. However, if the site is cluttered and has a bad design, this can have a negative effect therefore, I like to keep websites clean-looking and as minimalist as possible without losing the mission of the charity. I would like to think that my work on the market websites (Acton and W3) has helped to make those successful projects and provided a great service to the local community.
For someone with website expertise considering volunteering with a charity like Action West London, what advice would you offer? What are some of the unique rewards and perhaps challenges of applying your skills in a voluntary role within a community-focused organisation?
I would advise identifying what sector of charity work you are passionate about and sticking to that when volunteering, rather than spreading yourself too much. In my case, I stay with charities involving family support or that support children or young people who need help in whatever way. I would also advise registering with an organisation such as Reach Volunteering so you can consider what opportunities are available.
Volunteer Week is a chance to recognise the amazing dedication of people like you. What message would you like to share with the Acton and wider West London community about the value of volunteering and the positive difference it makes to organisations like Action West London?
For any charity, volunteers are an essential part of the organisation, providing essential roles both directly and in support of staff. As funding gets harder and harder to secure, which is an increasing struggle in 2025 and beyond, volunteers and donations are becoming essential rather than a bonus. So if you have spare time on your hands, please consider volunteering. You are needed and will really make a difference.
To volunteer with Action West London click here