Tell us a bit about yourself?

In the run up to retirement, I’m working as a freelance communications specialist – mostly doing writing, proofreading and editing. This allows me to work from home, at my own pace and to hours that suit, and I’m really enjoying the lifestyle. It gives me more time to spend with my husband, family and friends – and the freedom to enjoy the occasional good weather we get in Scotland! I love exploring, lazing about and hunting down elusive ancestors.

How did you first become involved with Smalls and what made you want to volunteer with us?

I’ve known Maria, through work, since the early ‘90s. I had a huge admiration for the volunteering work she did during her holidays and I also remember wandering round M&S looking for suitable knickers in response to her very first pants appeal back in… 2009? It wasn’t until I left corporate life in 2016 that I became involved with Smalls on the suggestion of a mutual friend. What can I say? It seemed like a good idea at the time!

What do you do for Smalls?

Because of my background in communications, I joined the Chatty Pants team, which responds to all the questions and comments people send/post on our social media pages. 

What do you enjoy about volunteering with Smalls?

It’s great to feel you’re contributing to something worthwhile. And although working freelance – i.e. alone – suits me in many ways, I do occasionally miss the buzz and interaction of being part of a team. And there’s certainly a lot of buzz with Smalls!

What would you say to someone thinking of volunteering with Smalls?

Don’t hesitate. You get to work with a great bunch of people at the same time as making a real difference to people a lot less lucky than we are.