Post | November 2023 | Trustees | 2 min read

Terence's story

Written by

Photograph of Terrence volunteering in the garden with other volunteers

Terence Palfrey (pictured right) began volunteering as a Trustee in 2017 following the sad loss of his partner. This life-altering event prompted him to reassess his priorities and he decided that he wanted to dedicate his efforts to supporting others going through a similar experience.

So, he founded The Geranium Trust, a charity dedicated to helping individuals facing challenges such as bereavement, loneliness and isolation by offing offer them the support and companionship during difficult times. He shares his story:

“After dedicating many years to working for the charity PDSA and later establishing a successful business with my partner, I found myself at a crossroads when he passed away in 2017.

“This prompted me to reflect on the meaning of it all. I just couldn’t give up on life when there are others to whom I could offer my many years of experience to help and support. So, I set up the Geranium Trust to support those living with bereavement, loneliness and feeling isolated.

“Being a trustee is an honour and a great privilege. I see myself as part of a team, working closely with my fellow board members to manage and promote our work.

“My extensive background, encompassing years as an appeals organiser and as a business owner, has equipped me with the ability to collaborate effectively with individuals from diverse backgrounds, including those who seek our support.

“I also serve as a charity ambassador, and am constantly on the lookout for opportunities to share our mission, as we, like all charitable organisations, rely on the kindness of others who contribute funds that enable us to sustain our efforts.

“This journey has not only allowed me to form wonderful new friendships but has also kept me mentally and physically engaged, instilling a profound sense of purpose in my life.

“If you have skills to offer that you think would be of help to others, then go for it and make a positive difference! Giving something back is so rewarding. It's true, giving is so much more rewarding than receiving!”

If Terrence's story has inspired you to consider volunteering as a Trustee, please click the link below.

I want to volunteer

Grahame's Story

| Trustees

Grahame is Chair of Trustees at Spark Somerset and has a career spanning health and social care, education, consulting and financial services. He is a member of the Somerset Integrated Care Board and is passionate about the value of collaboration with the local VCSE. Here, he shares with us why volunteering is so important to him and how it led him to join the Spark Somerset Board. “My volunteering story began in health and social care. Whilst working at Weston General Hospital , I supported the volunteers there and soon realised that, in many areas, the hospital would grind to a halt without their smiling, can do approach . “This highlighted to me the range of voluntary roles in health and social care and so, when the pandemic hit, I volunteered at local vaccination centres for the Red Cross, NHS and Festival Medical Services, and became a Covid Community Champion with Spark Somerset. Through these roles I was able to assure, amuse, listen, inform and share with people who were unsure. “It's great to meet so many people, both volunteers and the public - to share a moment or a story which demonstrates how human we all are. “Subsequently, I have established a Good Neighbours scheme in my local community, working with a small band of volunteers to support people to go shopping, collect prescriptions, attend medical appointments and share a cup of coffee. “ Thinking of others reduces your own woes, helps you focus on the benefits you can give and share with others, and creates opportunities to meet other, like minded people." “Charities across Somerset are being asked to support more residents, often those who have particularly struggled with the impacts of the pandemic. As such, demand for Spark Somerset’s services has increased and the Spark Somerset team have excelled in getting to be at the negotiating table, especially around the health and social care agenda , and being listened to as they make the case for the work of our Somerset charities. “That has resulted in further activities being commissioned by the NHS and Somerset County Council which have been shared directly with the charities we have been able to represent.” Katherine Nolan, CEO of Spark Somerset, comments, “Grahame’s appointment is a perfect fit and will greatly support us and the sector as we work together to make sure the residents of Somerset get the support they need when they need it.” Grahame continues, “I hope my experience and expertise will help Katherine and her team as we amplify the voice of local voluntary community and social enterprise organisations. "I consider it a great privilege to work with the Spark Somerset board and staff team, for whom the local VCSE sector and the population it serves is at the heart of all they do." If Grahame's story has inspired you to get involved in volunteering, click on the link below.

Sue's Story

| Trustees

“If you are interested in becoming a Trustee, I would highly recommend it. You can pursue your interests and hobbies and make a real difference to a charity you care about!"

Sarah's Story

| Trustees

"It’s empowering to know I that can use my skills for the benefit of the school, my son and other children like him.”

Post | November 2023 | Trustees | 2 min read

Terence's story

Written by

Laura Bazley

“After dedicating many years to working for the charity PDSA and later establishing a successful business with my partner, I found myself at a crossroads when he passed away in 2017.

“Being a trustee is an honour and a great privilege. I see myself as part of a team, working closely with my fellow board members to manage and promote our work.

“This journey has not only allowed me to form wonderful new friendships but has also kept me mentally and physically engaged, instilling a profound sense of purpose in my life.

If Terrence's story has inspired you to consider volunteering as a Trustee, please click the link below.

I want to volunteer