Date published: 14 April 2026 by Sophie Wichman
Meet Kerry-Anne: Volunteer at the Oncology Ward Drop-In Group at the Royal Victoria Infirmary
Tell us about yourself!
“I'm Kerry-Anne, I am currently a full time carer for my two children. My eldest is autistic and my youngest, Nathaniel, had brain cancer when he was 20 months old. I qualified as a teacher and have worked in primary and secondary schools in the past and am hoping to re-qualify as a health play specialist in the future. I'm a very crafty person, I enjoy drawing, painting, sewing and will have a go at just about anything that will keep my hands and mind busy.”
Why did you decide to start volunteering with Rainbow Trust?
“When Nathaniel was in hospital a lot of different charities turned up, I didn't even know that most of them existed but it blew me away that so many people who didn't know us cared and that they were giving their time and energy to us.
Once Nathaniel’s appointments slowed down and we were settled into a routine I started looking for ways to volunteer at the Royal Victoria Infirmary [in Newcastle upon Tyne] I to give something back. I found the Rainbow Trust advertising for volunteers and applied. I wanted to work directly with children rather than fundraise or doing admin work which seemed to be what a lot of other charities needed at the time. Both are very important but working with children is where my heart is and so it is how I wanted to give my time.”
Can you explain what your role involves?
“My role involves crafting with children who are undergoing chemotherapy or waiting for different procedures. We draw, paint, make cards and models. In December we decorated ceramic baubles and in April we decorated bonnets. I always have playdough to hand, if children are a little shy then getting the playdough out can encourage them to join in. I enjoy finding out what different things the children enjoy so I can choose what to do in the next session. It helps the time pass for the children and can be a break for their parents, entertaining a child for hours can be draining especially when you're coping with your own pain and fears.”
What’s the best thing about volunteering so far?
“Seeing the children engaged and enjoying their time crafting with me is a joy, I will never get bored of their smiles.”
Anything challenging?
“Seeing the parents fear can be challenging because I can feel helpless in those moments and it mirrors my own fears for Nathaniel. I will listen to parents when they want to talk about theirs and their child's journey which can help and if appropriate I can relate to them through my own experiences with my son. It's the helplessness that can be hard but knowing that I am supporting children and their families when they are most scared is more than enough motivation and reward.”
Anything else you’d like to say?
“Volunteering on the chemotherapy ward can be emotional but it is truly rewarding. The children get excited when I pull out my bag of crafts and love to see what we can find in there to do. If you get the opportunity to volunteer I'd highly recommend it.”
To find out more about volunteering at Rainbow Trust please visit our website: