BCHA is full of fantastic people who are passionate about supporting our community. Our annual Bchangemakers Awards give us the chance to come together to celebrate our wonderful colleagues and volunteers, whilst shining a light on those people who go the extra mile to make a difference.
At this year’s Bchangemakers ceremony, Juliet Collings won the Valiant Volunteer Award for generously devoting her time to the University Retreat each week. Having completed trauma training by Carolyn Spring, courtesy of BCHA, Juliet is well equipped to support the student community and has already made the world of difference. Whether greeting students with a smile or aiding someone in crisis, her compassionate approach has made a lasting impact on both students and staff.
“As a University Retreat volunteer, I have the privilege of supporting students in mental health crises. I dedicate one shift per week to provide person-centred support tailored to the students’ needs, with the flexibility to offer more time during critical periods like exam seasons.
“For new visitors I will often begin by welcoming them and showing them the ways in which they can use the space. Often, I facilitate therapeutic conversations, listen to concerns, manage risk and help students regulate their emotions. Sometimes, practical support is needed, like organising studies or housing, where I advocate for them. Even simple acts like sitting together for crafts or games like Jenga can help students relax, open up and share self-management strategies.
“I love the atmosphere in the Retreat and appreciate how the staff foster a calm and welcoming environment, one which I can see is so prized by students, and is a joy to work in. However, the interactions with the students stand out the most. I find the students to be respectful, open, courageous and warm hearted, which makes supporting them in crisis a privilege.
“Supporting students, many of whom are living away from home for the first time, is incredibly fulfilling. The uniqueness of the University Retreat, offering a non-medical, non-confrontational safe space, is special. The students’ appreciation for this environment, where they experience genuine human connection and feel valued, excites me every day.
“The team here is exceptional—kind, welcoming and accommodating. They value my unique role as a volunteer, offering unwavering support with any challenges that I face. Working alongside Ariel, Dawn, Fran, and our manager Josh has been an enriching experience. They have integrated me seamlessly into the team, where we share knowledge, skills and continuously discuss ways to enhance our service to better meet students' needs. This inclusive and supportive environment makes volunteering both nourishing and sustaining.
“Joining BCHA and working at the university campus was an exciting opportunity, especially as I was new to the area. Supporting my local community, particularly the student population, has been incredibly gratifying. Working for BCHA has given me insight into the challenges students face and allowed me to use my skills and time to make a positive impact.
“Through my experiences at BCHA, I have engaged with a diverse group of people, who often astound me with their insight and resilience. On occasion, their views have challenged my preconceived notions in a way that has felt important and necessary. I have learned that society greatly benefits from a gentle, warm, non-threatening space where people can access support that is neither formalised nor medicalised.
“Volunteering with BCHA has been a journey of compassion, growth and meaningful impact. I am proud to be part of an organisation that values human connection and strives to make a difference in the lives of those facing challenges.”
Juliet’s manager and Senior Practitioner, Joshua Hevicon, praised her dedication. He said: “Juliet's selfless commitment and compassionate approach to supporting the University Retreat has been both moving and inspiring, having devoted countless hours of her own time to students to help them feel welcome, safe and supported in their time of need.
“Students and staff alike have been incredibly grateful for Juliet's presence throughout the academic year, and we feel lucky to have had someone so aligned with BCHA's values in our ranks. I couldn't think of a more deserved award winner!”
Congratulations to Juliet and all winners of Bchangemakers awards for transforming lives and driving our compassionate culture.