40 Faces of Brendoncare – Jane Robbins

About six years ago, Tor Robbins, the administrator of Brendoncare Park Road, suggested to her Mum Jane that she might consider becoming a volunteer at the care home.

Jane had previously volunteered with different organisations over many years, so it seemed a perfectly natural thing for her to do.

As it turned out, there was never a dull moment for Jane who took on several roles there, including organising activities, running the shop trolley. She also helped with the paperwork, including collecting residents’ feedback for the care home’s annual survey.

Spreadsheets:

Life in the care home changed considerably during Covid. “Back then, I could hide in office where I kept out of the way doing the spreadsheets,” Jane recalls.

With daughter Tor, Jane then moved to Brendoncare St Giles View last year after Park Road closed.

Jane really enjoys volunteering at St Giles View, especially helping out with the arts and crafts. Among her Christmas activities have been supporting the residents as they made decorations for the care home’s tree.

“I think the fact it is a purpose built home means we can give more time to the residents, where before, because of the lack of rooms, we were moving the residents from one place to another. It is much better here, much lighter and airier, and more cheerful.”

She adds: “I have chosen to stay in the care home environment as opposed to working in Brendoncare’s community clubs. I find them more personal and really get the chance to get to know the residents.

“That does so much for my wellbeing knowing I am making a difference and knowing I can make the residents laugh. With all the doom and gloom currently, that is what it is all about. I always treat people the way I would like to be treated myself.”

Jane is always happy to turn her hand to anything Brendoncare St Giles View would like her to do to support residents and colleagues there.

“One thing I love about volunteering is that you don’t know from day to day what is happening. By working with the residents, you know how they are feeling and find ways of brightening their day.

Glitter:

“For example, for the decorations we have been making, some of the residents might not be able to see very well so that is why brightness and glitter is important.”

Her volunteer work started when she lived overseas, where she worked in libraries and schools. Jane previously worked on reception for Citizens Advice before volunteering for Brendoncare. She also helps organising the donated books at both Velmore and Brownhill Community Centres.

Jane also worked as a volunteer for ‘Chandlers Ford Help’ supporting residents during the pandemic. At the end, she was presented with an Eastleigh local heroes’ award certificate.