Gemma's story

Gemma had been wanting to volunteer for ages, with a view to getting involved in something different and try new things.

Gemma explains: “I did volunteer for a few other organisations first but they weren’t quite what I was after. It was the idea of upcycling and learning new skills that attracted me initially to volunteer for Thames Hospice. However I am now touched by the respect the organisation has in the local area and in turn, I have so much admiration for the work and services that the Hospice provides.”

Gemma has been working as part of the upcycling team for the last 18 months and adds: “Training is given at every stage of upcycling and I have learnt so many new skills since I started. As I’ve gone on, I’ve learnt how to do small repairs, take something apart, put it back together again and know what the right tools are to use for whatever I am doing. I’ve discovered what the best solutions are for washing furniture down and the best tools to sand, clean and then paint. And I love I can now give advice on upcycling to customers who come and visit.”

As time has gone on, Gemma has been given a free hand to be creative as each piece is unique. She loves being able to give an old fashioned item, a modern twist, and in being creative as little or as much as she wants.

Gemma volunteers with different crafts people and collaborates on many items, such as working with the upholsterers in choosing the right donated fabric and then deciding on the best paint colours together.

Gemma says: “There are so many positives to volunteering here. I also do paid work but the Hospice is really flexible and lets me fit my paid work around my volunteering.

“It’s also a lovely working environment, very social and everyone is friendly and here to do what they can. The radio is on, it’s very chatty and there’s always biscuits and chocolate going round.

“I think there’s something magical about being crafty with your hands, chatting with others while you are working and then creating something very special.

“After volunteering, you go away feeling you’ve done something creative but also you’ve done something fulfilling and worthwhile. I’m always really pleased I volunteered. No matter how tired I am, I always go away feeling energised.”