Refuge volunteer rewarded

Women leaving the South West Refuge have one man to thank for their comfortable new life, and yesterday he was named the region’s Volunteer of the Year.

Bill Scott has volunteered for 50 years, and for the past three he has helped women leaving the South West Refuge furnish their new homes.

Along with nine others, he was recognised at yesterday’s National Volunteer Week, South West Volunteer of the Year event.

Mr Scott’s volunteer work began after his wife died, leaving Mr Scott to care for their four children under the age of 10.

He said that experience pushed him to help others as he realised what little help was available.

Mr Scott was nominated by South West Refuge, which provides crisis accommodation for women and their children who are fleeing domestic violence.

The nomination outlined his role collecting furniture and household goods before moving and helping to set up the homes of women who had suffered from domestic violence.

Mr Scott said his connections within the community meant he was able to get his hands on the items the refuge needed.

“Last month I did two houses full of furniture and the month before I did four, ” he said.

“My friend and I have a private agreement with the refuge and they tell us when and where they need furniture delivered.”

Volunteer South West manager Tania Jackson said Mr Scott wore many hats within the volunteer community and was chosen by a panel of other volunteers for the prize. Mr Scott said he was surprised by his win.