When Helen first walked into our Fired Up pottery, she wasn’t sure what to expect. What she found was a community built on kindness, encouragement, and inclusion, and an experience she now describes as “one of the most rewarding things I’ve ever done.”
Helen is one of more than 70 volunteers supporting Brandon social enterprises, each helping to create meaningful opportunities for the people we support to learn, grow, and thrive. As we mark Volunteers’ Week 2026, we’re celebrating the difference they make.
From students on work experience to retired professionals, our volunteers come from all walks of life. Some bring specialist skills, others simply a willingness to help. All share a common purpose: making a positive impact.
Helping hands at Elm Tree Farm
At Elm Tree Farm, that impact is especially visible. Volunteers often take on large, practical jobs that would be difficult to do alongside day-to-day support for co-farmers.
Ross and Bev, parents of Leah, the animal care manager, have become a valued part of the team. They give up one day every other weekend, come rain or shine, to help with everything from general maintenance and gardening to supporting events. Since starting in September 2025, they’ve taken on all kinds of tasks: helping with lambs, moving pigs to new fields, and tackling jobs that might otherwise feel too big to manage.
Their commitment not only keeps the farm running smoothly but also helps create more opportunities for the people we support to get involved, learn new skills, and be part of something meaningful.
Elm Tree Farm nursery manager, Bash, explains: “Volunteers help the nursery flourish as a place of growth, care, and support.”
A host of volunteers across retail and potteries
In our charity shops and online operations, volunteers are at the heart of everything. Lotte, who manages our busy Cotham Shop, sees it firsthand.
“They truly are the backbone of our shop. Their enthusiasm and skills make a huge difference.”
From making our shops welcoming places, to supporting customers, volunteers keep things running smoothly. Harry, who oversees our eBay shop, highlights another side of their contribution.
“The commitment, skill, and attention to detail our volunteers bring make them a huge asset.”
While volunteers give so much, many say they gain just as much in return. For Cheryl, at Banwell Pottery, volunteering offers something simple but powerful.
“I benefit from slowing my pace, learning from the people who attend the group, and enjoying good company.”
And for April, who volunteers at Fired Up, the sense of belonging stood out immediately.
“The moment I walked in, everyone welcomed me and made me feel at ease. I truly feel part of the team.”
A heartfelt thank you
These experiences show that volunteering isn’t just about helping others; it’s about connection, growth, and shared purpose.
Across our enterprises, volunteers create something bigger than the sum of their efforts. As Mia, our Whiteladies Road shop manager, puts it:
“Our shop wouldn’t be the same without them.”
To every one of our volunteers, thank you for all that you do! Your time, care, and commitment make a lasting difference to the lives of the people we support.
