Occupational therapy students from the University of the West of England are volunteering for Weston Hospicecare as part of their studies.

The students are based at the Hub, a sorting area on the Oldmixon which supports the hospice’s shops, where they are helping to sort item such as clothing, bric-a-brac, toys and books.

The Hub’s manager Sarah Wright says the partnership between Weston Hospicecare and UWE has benefits for both parties.

She said: “The UWE students have joined us for a number of years now for these two weeks, as part of their course. We always find their assistance invaluable as the additional manpower is always welcome.

“The Hub supports the function of the shops. We send vans out to collect donations from our shops and deliver stock orders on a daily basis. From here we provide a furniture collection and delivery service to customers in the local area.

“We also have an additional two students helping with our online service. They are assisting in generating income for the hospice through (online music trading site) Music Magpie and assisting with the listing of items on Ebay.

“As the students are studying occupational therapy, they find it useful to see how other organisations work. The students have told me that what they enjoy, is seeing the inside of a charity, the ‘behind the scenes’ work that the public does not usually see.

“Many of the students welcome the opportunity to work for the hospice, as they know someone that has used the services we provide.”

It is estimated volunteers’ time alone is worth £1million to Weston Hospicecare. Those who would like to volunteer for the hospice are advised to email volunteer@westonhospicecare.org.uk. ,