What led you to volunteering with Bridewell?
My interest in Bridewell first started with an open day visit to the gardens on a gloriously sunny day. I came because I have interests in both gardening and adult mental health, and was struck by the beauty and tranquility of the gardens. During my new year reflections, so many months later in the dark days of winter, I recalled this visit and felt an urge to spend more time at Bridewell and take part in the recovery work there.
What skills and qualities do you think you need to volunteer at Bridewell?
One of the great things about the team at Bridewell is the range of skills, knowledge, abilities and attributes each member brings. As a volunteer, it is good to have some level of creativity (which takes many forms), enjoyment in being outside (in all weathers) and a willingness to get stuck into a range of practical tasks. Patience, being a good listener, and having an interest in people from all walks of life are important qualities to have. As a volunteer at Bridewell you need an understanding of, appreciation for and ability to uphold boundaries.
Patience, being a good listener, and having an interest in people from all walks of life are important qualities to have
What do you find most rewarding about the role?
It has been well worth the wait of nearly a year between my initial enquiry and beginning voluntary work at Bridewell. I value being part of a team which is supportive of each other and the gardeners using the service. I find it fulfilling that we work with the common purpose of assisting gardeners’ recovery and noticing the benefit of that work. I find it especially rewarding to watch gardeners try new activities, work collaboratively and encouraging each other. I have enjoyed learning new crafts skills (willow work and whittling in particular) and being in beautiful surroundings which look different every week. I also enjoy watching the chickens who put a smile on my face.
