Volunteer Spotlight - Tasha, Arts in Health Volunteer

Volunteers like Tasha bring talent and artistic skills to their role which both support the running of OHAP groups, enhance the Arts provision offered on wards in Community and Mental Health hospitals as well as support patients to engage and participate in activities. 

For Volunteers Week 2026 Tasha has kindly shared her story of Volunteering with Oxford Health and where her journey has taken her. 

I started volunteering with Oxford Health Charity in the summer of 2024 in the Abingdon OSRU ward. I was creating artwork with the patients, collaborating with them to create beautiful, colourful pieces of art using various techniques guided by myself and Vicki, the artist.

I started this role to enable me to keep up my artistic practice outside of university, while also helping others to enjoy the craft I love. Being able to see art through a new perspective was incredibly insightful for me. Being able to see how challenging some aspects might be for someone who has suffered a stroke; being able to enjoy the process of creating more than enjoying the outcome. It allowed me to play a small part in keeping up my creativity over the summer while simultaneously introducing my passion to others.

After my volunteering role, I managed to get a position aiding a gentleman with a brain injury in his day-to-day life, including making pottery, woodwork and art classes. With the skills I developed over my time at Oxford Health Charity and the experience working in clinical settings, I felt well prepared and qualified to take on this new role.

Often, patients look forward to the weekly art sessions as it gives them a creative outlet, something which is less common in hospitals and inpatient units. Many of the patients enjoyed art, but haven't done it since their school days, so reminiscing on techniques and mediums they used to use brings a smile to their face. Many patients I met have creative skills such as sewing, knitting, dancing, architecture drawing, singing and playing instruments; many of which they haven't used in years. Making art takes them back to the times they used to be creative in their skillset, and many can use those skills in our art sessions. 

I enjoy the conversations I have with patients, family members and staff, often reminiscing on previous times they've made art, their childhood or talking about their family. These conversations hold value for the patients and staff, it means I can find out more about each individual and get to know them better. The chat and art activity are a welcome distraction and sometimes the highlight of their day. 

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