As the end of the year approaches, we’re taking time to reflect over the past twelve months and look at the highlights. Read about Gordon & Mandy’s years.
Ann has been volunteering through the Involvement Centre at Duncan Macmillan House for roughly nine years. She’s also a carer for her grandson.
I find that most of what I do feels worthwhile, although the “Story Shop” stands out for me. Its success has been picked up by the Queen’s Medical Centre who have now taken over the running of it and it’s been going really well.
The other thing I think is good is the Ideal Ward Round. It will make a huge difference to service users staff and carers if we can get it up and running. A lot of work has gone into it.
I’ve enjoyed (if that’s the word) presenting a carers point a view to the bands 2-4 staff training. I’ve had some pretty positive feedback from staff – things like “it’s going to change the way I talk to carers” or “I didn’t realise that what we did or didn’t do had an impact on carers”.
I want to pass on the message that caring can be quite a lonely place. Remember to listen to us, don’t just hear.
I tell my story and take part in role plays during the Behavioural Family Therapy training too. It’s a great. If Guy’s brother had access to that when Guy was ill, he’d have better understood mental health.
Oh and I won Volunteer of the Year at the OSCARS in March this year!
Interested in getting involved and having similar highlights to your year? Contact us to find out more about volunteering.
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