A Forth Valley College social care student was recently presented with a ‘Heart of Gold’ award at Stirling Voluntary Enterprise’s Inspiring Volunteer Awards 2017.
Tammy Martin (27) from Stirling - who is currently studying an NC Child, Health & Social Care - Social Care course at the College - was put forward for the award in regards to volunteer work undertaken with local charity Homestart.
The Stirling-based organisation offers informal support for families, with at least one child under the age of five, who may be experiencing a range of difficulties such as family breakdowns, physical or mental health issues, bereavements or unexpected crisis.
The young mother was inspired to get involved with the charity after she herself struggled with post-natal depression following the birth of her two sons and felt she could have benefited from more support.
She volunteered with Home-Start over a period of two years offering help to several local families before starting her college course in August this year.
She received her award at a ceremony held at the Engine Shed in Stirling on Tuesday 26 September 2017.
Tammy said:
“I was over-whelmed to win the award especially when hundreds of people had been put forward for it. It was really nice to have others see the good in me and acknowledge the help I had given them.
“I really enjoyed my time volunteering and it felt good to take a negative and turn it into a positive. It also helped me realise that I want to work with people with mental health issues and it inspired me to apply to college. I’m really looking forward to doing more to help those facing difficulties in the future.”