Westgate House in Wallingford is celebrating the outstanding contribution of volunteer Graham Atkins during this year’s national Volunteers’ Week (2-8 June 2025).

Graham is one of 700 volunteers supporting OSJCT care homes who have been invited to a special celebration event hosted by the Volunteering team. The event offers a chance for volunteers to come together, share their experiences and be recognised for the invaluable contributions they make to residents and care teams.

Graham’s connection with Westgate House began nearly three years ago, when his late wife moved into the care home. “I got to know the home, the team and some of the residents then,” he recalls. “I had visited on a few occasions previously, but it was during that time I really became part of the home’s community.”

A close friend, whose wife was also living at the home, suggested the pair host a Sunday service for residents – an event that would soon become a twice-monthly fixture in the home’s calendar. “Our first service was held upstairs and the lounge was absolutely packed – it just took off from there,” says Graham.

After his wife sadly passed away in December 2022, Graham joined as an official OSJCT volunteer the following month. He now gives his time generously, volunteering two full days each week and two Sundays a month, helping to enrich the lives of residents through companionship, music, spiritual support, and hands-on help.

“I’ve learnt a lot through volunteering,” Graham reflects. “I really enjoy spending time with residents, chatting with them, sometimes singing to them. If I can bring someone a sense of calm or lift their spirits, it’s time well spent.

“One of my most treasured memories is of a lady who joined us for a service, who didn’t usually come along. I’d never really spoken to her before, but there she was – singing hymns, smiling and fully joining in. It was a beautiful moment.”

Graham, who worked for the Church Mission Society based near Blackbird Leys, Oxford, includes traditional hymns, familiar prayers, the Lord’s Prayer, and a short reflection in services, followed by tea and biscuits – often homemade by Graham himself. “The refreshments afterwards are just as important,” he says. “They give everyone the chance to sit together, chat, and connect – residents, families, and members of the community alike.”

Graham also supports the home’s Activities Co-ordinator, joining in with popular sessions such as quizzes, music bingo, and sing-alongs, where he often plays guitar and performs classic songs from the 1960s and 70s. “Music always brings people together,” he says. “It sparks memories and creates moments of real joy.”

A keen gardener, Graham is currently supporting residents with their entry to OSJCT’s annual Trust in Bloom competition. “We’re sowing seeds and potting plants together. Last year, our hanging baskets looked brilliant – we’re hoping to do even better this year!”

When asked what he would say to someone considering volunteering, Graham is enthusiastic: “Go for it! Even if you’ve just got a few hours, it makes a difference. Seeing someone’s face light up, offering them a different voice to chat to – it’s incredibly rewarding. It’s helped me, too – I’ve learnt to listen not just with my ears, but with my eyes. You start to pick up on how someone’s really feeling, just by being present.”

Daniela Midwinter, Home Manager at Westgate House, shared her appreciation: “Graham is an exceptional volunteer and a cherished part of the Westgate House community. He brings warmth, empathy and energy to everything he does. Whether he’s leading a service, strumming his guitar, or helping in the garden, he makes a real difference to the lives of our residents – and we are incredibly grateful for his time and dedication.”

Catherine Semmence, Head of Volunteering at OSJCT and pictured above with Graham, added: “Volunteering is deeply embedded in life at OSJCT. Our volunteers bring their own unique interests and personalities, helping residents to stay connected with the activities and conversations they love. Whether it's a weekly visit to share a hobby, supporting someone to stay active, or helping out at a one-off team volunteering day from a local business, every contribution makes a difference to those that live with us.”

Visit volunteer.osjct.co.uk for current volunteering opportunities at OSJCT and to apply online.