Born in Shaftesbury, Rachel has called Salisbury home since 1960 and has supported families in the city as a nurse, child minder, foster carer and volunteer. Awarded the Silver Wolf for her work in the Scouting movements and receiving an MBE for services to children and families Rachel has worked with organisations including the John McNeill Opportunity Centre and Home Start.
In this interview Rachel talks about learning to say ‘no’, the value of arts and crafts in childcare and the role that faith plays in her work. In her retirement Rachel enjoys volunteering as an usher at Salisbury Playhouse and continues to find ways to support and walk alongside families needing support.
I urge you to grab a tissue before you settle down to enjoy Rachel’s reflections – the letters of gratitude are sure to bring a tear!
Interview and article by Louise Jordan-Dench
Photo credit: Gemma Brunton Photography
