Julie Robertson

Julie, who is an artist and also a former speech therapist, decided to volunteer for CHAS after she heard about how the charity supports children with life-shortening conditions and their families right across Scotland. She said: “I am very lucky to have three children of my own and wondered if I could be useful helping CHAS. Luckily at the time there was a vacancy to volunteer with activities at Rachel House, and as I had worked with children in my role as a speech therapist, I decided to apply.

“My role from the beginning was to join in with whatever activities were happening. It has always been a very varied and fun role with crafts, painting, baking, playing in the garden, storytelling and many more! “Over the years, as well as continuing with activities, I have also joined in with fundraising, and raising funds myself through my paintings. Most recently I have helped run weekly ‘Sip and Sign’ sessions at Rachel House where we teach children, their families and staff different Makaton signs each week.

“During the Covid pandemic I started letter writing to a couple of the children, and some story telling through Zoom.

“There are many things I like about volunteering especially the variety of activities I have been part of and the many wonderful people I have met. Families, children, staff and other volunteers.

“The most special moments over the years are always the children’s smiles and laughter. Including the ones where I’ve not meant to make them laugh! During a story over Zoom once I was putting on silly voices for the different characters and started to cough so much I ended up crying - the result being the child I was reading to couldn’t stop laughing!

“I would say to anyone considering volunteering with CHAS to go for it. There are so many different roles you can help with. I have learnt so much over the years and the staff are a wonderful support. Every day I have volunteered there have been so many smiles, joy and a feeling that I have been appreciated – I just love it.”