Date published: 27 May 2025 by Sophie Wichman

Meet Pushpa, a dedicated Family Support Volunteer from Rainbow Trust in Southampton:

"For me, Rainbow Trust isn’t just a charity—it’s a family, a support system, and a way to give back with love and purpose." 

Can you tell us a bit about yourself?

"My name is Pushpa and I am a Teaching Assistant in a local school to where I live. With four children and two grandchildren, including a close family member who spent time in neonatal care, my connection to the cause is deeply personal. I have always had a passion for supporting children and families in every corner of my life. "

Why did you decide to start volunteering with Rainbow Trust?

"My volunteering journey began with organising curry and quiz nights to raise money for the neo-natal unit where my close family member was treated. I wanted to give something back to the unit for all their support and dedication.  I started to raise money for over 2 years until Covid put a stop to it!

"I have worked with children and their families my whole life. I started my career in volunteering at a local toddler group, pre-school and a local school, where my children attended. I then started working with children as a part-time Early Years Practitioner and pursed my career and became a manager of a pre-school. In addition to this I completed two degrees’, in Early Years and Child Care and BA Hons Education Studies whilst raising my family at the age of 40!"   

Can you explain what your role involves?

"As a Volunteer Family Support Worker with Rainbow Trust, I provide emotional and practical help to families, whether through school pickups, outings, or simply offering a listening ear.  I also tap into local business for tickets for days out at farms, to request sponsor days out and for tickets for local attractions/places to visit. 

"Whether helping last minute at Paulton’s Park events, carol singing, representing Rainbow Trust at universities, or connecting with local businesses for sponsorships, I try to embrace every opportunity to make a difference, to raise awareness and money for the Rainbow Trust.   

"I am very excited to be looking into setting up a Slow Running Club to support wellbeing.   

"In addition, to all the above, I spend a few hours volunteering at Ronald McDonald House, Southampton whenever a can, where I carry out various activities and housekeeping to support families visiting children in hospital."       

What’s the best thing about volunteering?

"After nearly two years of volunteering with Rainbow Trust Children’s Charity, I thoroughly enjoy my role and feel privileged to be able to be part of the families lives and to be a support for them in any way I can."

Anything else you’d like to say?

"For me, Rainbow Trust isn’t just a charity—it’s a family, a support system, and a way to give back with love and purpose."