With a Little Help from... Francis!

2005 ? the Year of the Volunteer?or should that be the Year of Francis McDermott?

From assisting those with mental health problems to helping enforce the 'long arm of the law?, the 40-year-old Psychology student at Edge Hill is certainly keeping busy.

"I'd say that volunteer work takes up most of my week," said Francis, originally from Liverpool but now living in Ormskirk. "But that?s been the case for almost 20 years so I?m well used to it now!"

Francis, who is a former professional actor and once ran his own theatre company, is currently doing volunteer work with Ormskirk Police, helping out with Edge Hill-organised play schemes and fun-days for children with physical and mental disabilities, as well as assisting patients on behalf of Advocacy West Lancs.

"I just don?t know how to say no ? that?s my problem," added Francis, who has also worked for the civil service and undertaken outreach work for the Catholic Church. "Helping others is really rewarding as it's good for character progression and I also acquire transferable skills that I can use in other areas and eventually in my full-time work."

As someone who aims to practice as a clinical psychologist after completing his degree, Francis also uses his volunteer work to gain a better understanding of people with mental health problems.

"I?m beginning to recognise particular psychological conditions which means I?m picking up really valuable practical skills whilst offering help to people who need it. Once I?ve graduated at Edge Hill and get a full-time job I?ll obviously have less time to lend my services, however I do intend to keep volunteering to some extent ? wouldn?t want to break the habit of a lifetime would I?"

Francis is currently one of 223 Edge Hill students registered as volunteers in addition to 25 members of staff.