Tom's volunteering story: Sowing the seeds amongst the students
Horticulture may not be the first thing that springs to mind when imagining volunteering with Together Trust, but one of our green-fingered volunteers is making a great difference in exactly that.
Tom Hatton-Jones, 20, has been volunteering for the Together Trust for over a year now as a horticultural assistant at Bridge College, which provides specialist education for students aged 16 to 25 with learning difficulties, disabilities, special health needs and autism.
Tom, who is very well thought of by both the staff and students, recently received recognition as a 'Bridge Way Winner' for "doing a great job in the greenhouses and always making sure the vegetables are put to good use", as well as for always coming in with a smile. He helps the students to grow fruit and vegetables, shows them how to use tools safely, and helps give them a general understanding of horticulture. As subject area coordinator Sarah Jenkinson explains, he makes a great difference:
"Tom makes everything so much more accessible for the students by promoting horticulture; he brings his skills and knowledge to the college."
Some of the crops the students grow are even used to make essential oils and sensory balms, which then get sold to raise funds for the college.
After fulfilling his initial reason for volunteering, Tom has continued to volunteer because of how interesting and fulfilling he finds his role at the college. He now runs a lunchtime club where he enjoys seeing the students taking an interest and enjoying themselves, describing it as "so rewarding" as gardening is very good for mental and physical health. "I work with one student who really comes into his own [when he's gardening] - his worries and anxiety seem to disappear.
For anyone who is considering getting involved in volunteering, Tom's advice would be, "Go for it! It's such a nice experience and environment to be in, everyone is positive and happy to be there."
Thank you so much, Tom, for everything you do for the students at Bridge College. We are so thankful for all your time, energy, and expertise! Thank you also to Hollie for volunteering to interview Tom and his colleagues at Bridge College and for reporting on what is going on there.
If you would like to volunteer with Together Trust, check out our current volunteering opportunities and apply online here.
If you would like the information in a different format, or just want to chat about what's involved, we're always delighted to talk about volunteering - get in touch at volunteer@togethertrust.org.uk / 07342 067 557.