The People Making Thing Possible – Deborah

As part of Volunteers’ Week 2026, we’re shining a spotlight on some of the incredible people who make REMAP’s work possible.

Deborah is a volunteer with the Dumfries REMAP branch, where she helps support the team in her roles as co-chairperson and treasurer. Having been involved with REMAP for more than a decade, she has seen firsthand the difference that practical, bespoke solutions can make to people’s lives.

We spoke to Deborah about her volunteering journey, some of the projects she’s most proud of, and why she would encourage others to get involved:

I am a Children’s Occupational Therapist and volunteer part time for the Dumfries REMAP branch. I am currently co-chairperson and treasurer. This includes chairing meetings which are held monthly and attending to the financial side of the branch such as processing claim requests and collating annual accounts.

I encountered REMAP in a previous job while working as an Occupational Therapist (OT) in an outpatient Rheumatology setting. One of the patients I was working with had Rheumatoid Arthritis with pain and reduced movement in both shoulders. A REMAP engineer had designed and made a hairdryer holder for her which worked extremely well as it enabled her to dry her hair without her needing to hold/position the hairdryer. I was very impressed and soon after, joined the local REMAP panel in 2011.

I find the discussion at meetings very interesting as it involves group discussion between the OTs and engineers who offer their thoughts and suggestions about possible solutions and designs. It is also brilliant to see these ideas come to life and to hear about the impact and difference they can make for people’s independence skills.

There have been many memorable projects over the years that make me proud. Simple designs that make a big impact are the ones I remember the most. We like to celebrate these designs and often approach the local paper to spotlight these achievements. Our panel won a local award called the John Golder Award in 2013 after designing a tool to support a young person to switch on ceiling lights. In 2015, one of our engineers designed a support for a wheelchair user to attach a suitcase for his holidays. And a more recent one in 2025 was a simple aid to attach a helping hand tool to a wheelchair for a local man who liked to litter pick. Some brilliant designs that supported and enabled people’s participation in their everyday routines.

We meet monthly over Microsoft Teams to discuss progress with current cases, share information on new projects and discuss any other business. 

I would absolutely recommend volunteering with REMAP. It is a great group to be a part of as you feel that you are making a difference and supporting people to achieve and participate more independently in their daily lives. The skills and attributes needed include enthusiasm, team-working, problem solving, and creativity. It is brilliant to have branch members from diverse backgrounds including health professionals, joinery and engineering as they all bring a unique perspective and individual sets of skills.

Inspired by Deborah’s story? Join our volunteer community and help us continue making things possible.