A 13-year-old Inverness volunteer has been praised by a welfare charity for helping to transform the lives of disabled people in the city.
Madeline Hayes is one of Scotland’s youngest volunteers at Leonard Cheshire’s Cheshire House on Ness Walk.
Known to residents as Maddie, the inspiring youngster – who has been volunteering with the charity for three years – runs creative classes and helps people learn about the internet.
Maddie said volunteering helps make her feel that she’s “made an impact”.
She said: “To me, volunteering is a very rewarding thing. No matter what I do, I always feel like I’ve made an impact.
“I feel lucky to volunteer in such a nice environment where I’ve always felt welcome. I try to help out when I can and I don’t think of something I have to do; it’s something I choose to do.”
To help raise awareness of their cause, she has created a number of YouTube videos.
June Batt, a resident at Cheshire House, said: “I always have a great time with Maddie – she’s kind, pretty and the videos have made me famous. I’m always watching them on YouTube.”
Her efforts are being commended by the staff at the Inverness-based home as part of Volunteers’ Week, which began yesterday.
The UK wide campaign gives individuals and organisations the opportunity to say thank you to volunteers from all walks of life for their efforts, dedication and contribution to the community.
Jill Murray, Volunteer Coordinator for Leonard Cheshire in Scotland in Inverness, spoke of her passion and dedication towards their cause.
She said:“Everyone loves Maddie – she’s a breath of fresh air for the residents at Cheshire House. She has really good ideas and is always willing to help with anything.
“Her videos that she has made for us are really just the best and everyone loves to be a part of them, Maddie does all the editing and planning and they are guaranteed to make you smile.”
