Why did you start volunteering with Trinity?

I had heard good things about Trinity as a friend’s mum used to volunteer here and always spoke so highly of it. I am an art therapy student doing my placement at Trinity as part of my master’s degree in art psychotherapy. I am particularly interested in palliative care and bereavement work and want to specialise in this area so knew that Trinity was the place for me. 

Can you explain a bit about what you do in your volunteer role?

In my role I am involved in supporting the weekly art therapy group for Trinity patients and carers. I also run one-to-one art therapy sessions for bereaved family members.

At the group sessions we give participants a breadth of materials to work with. The sessions are non-directive and what they create is driven by the group members. The sessions give them time to reflect on their work as well as to take some meditative moments. 
Art therapy is about the creative act and how this can help people explore their emotions rather than the outcome of the work. 

What do you enjoy about your role?

It has been a wonderful experience volunteering at Trinity. Everyone has been so generous with their time, knowledge and expertise. I have also experienced an immense benefit to my own personal development and knowledge through my volunteering with Trinity. 
I enjoy seeing how happy the group participants are that art therapy is back and how much they benefit from it. It makes me proud of the work I do and the services that we provide at Trinity. 

Also, the onboarding was the most seamless I’ve ever experienced. Even before I first stepped inside Trinity, I felt really well-prepared and it helped my nerves!

What do you say to someone who is thinking about volunteering with Trinity?

Do it. At Trinity you’ll get to work with some of the most passionate and caring individuals. I’m inspired every week by the people that I meet.

Explore all our volunteering roles at Trinity