Business students from Stratford-upon-Avon College recently received the opportunity to learn about the important work done by charity Molly Ollys and given the chance to take part in volunteering opportunities.
The students were visited by Jennie Ludford, Head of PR & Comms at Molly Ollys, who spoke to them about her background, the charity and how the students could get involved.
They first learnt about Jennie’s background. After losing her son to cancer, Jennie wanted to focus on a career where she could help others. Molly Ollys was a charity that supported her during this time so she was delighted to get involved.
Jennie then went on to speak to the students about the charity itself. Molly Ollys was set up following the experiences of young Molly over the five years she received treatment for kidney cancer at Birmingham Children’s Hospital before passing away in 2011. Between 2017 and 2020, the charity funded Birmingham’s first paediatric palliative consultant; a position which has now become permanent and is currently funded through the NHS. Molly Ollys works alongside the NHS to support projects within the hospitals and the community.
She also told the students about the charities well known therapeutic toy lion, Olly The Brave, which has its own Hickman line and a detachable mane. The soft toy helps to explain and normalise the effects of chemotherapy. These form part of an Olly The Brave pack which includes a six-part book series. All of the charity’s work is to make life better for the children with life threatening illnesses and their families.
Charlie with Olly pictured left and Fred with Olly the Brave book
She then explained about some potential ways students could get involved with the charity through volunteering experiences. Jennie detailed why she came to speak to the students: “I wanted to inspire them on several levels: how to open doors for themselves, how to have good communication, how to show what they can offer. But also show another route of business. Working for a charity is about growing a business but also about giving back. I hope that I have inspired them to come and undertake work experience opportunities with us.”
Student Neve Hood commented: “It was incredible to learn about how they help people; how they make toys and books to help children and their families cope with illness. And also how small donation can lead to big fund raises which can create change.” Amber Smith added: “It was a really beneficial session!”
If you want to learn more about Molly Olly’s visit their website.
