Colin, 77, shares how he finds fulfilment and has learnt new skills through volunteering at Shottermill House in Haslemere

I also spend time reading with family members. Often we’ll read articles from The Pilgrims’ Magazine – they like to hear about what’s happening in other care homes. We also read a ‘good news’ newspaper which has lots of cheering stories. A lot of the older people have very poor eyesight and find reading difficult so they are very appreciative when someone reads to them.

I join in with the activities too and I’ve discovered I have a bit of an artistic streak. Recently, I helped one of the lady’s make an Easter bonnet. We were awarded the prize of runner-up in the competition which was nice. I’ll also do things like help make get well soon cards. People have commented that they like the effects I create with colouring in. This isn’t something I realised I had an aptitude for before.

For 10 years I was caring for my own father. This gave me a lot of experience in how to care for an elderly person and I’ve been able to bring that to this role. I understand some of the challenges.

A little while ago I was mayor for the local town of Bordon. As mayor I met a lot of interesting people and some of the most inspiring people I met were those who volunteered. I think that’s in part inspired me to become a volunteer myself. I would very much miss it if I wasn’t able to come.