Student’s walk to top off busy year

A Tayside student is taking on the Kiltwalk in the latest volunteer effort she has squeezed into a busy lockdown year.

Gemma Wallace, 22, is set to graduate from Dundee University after completing a four-year psychology degree.

But she has found time among final-year exam preparations to volunteer with city charity Eighteen and Under (18U) and fit an NHS test and trace role into her schedule.

Eighteen and Under was established in 1994 and provides information and support to young people who have been abused.

Its tailored and confidential help has continued throughout the pandemic.

Gemma is among a group of 18U volunteers taking on next week’s Kiltwalk to raise money for a leaking roof at the charity’s Victoria Road premises in the hope the building can be repaired in time for face-to-face support restarting.

Gemma found the charity during research based around her studies.

She said the help 18U offers and the inspiring work of founder Dr Laurie Matthew were the drivers in getting involved.

“I want to get into forensic psychology and am really interested in working with victims and survivors of crime,” said Gemma.

“I saw 18U advertised and really liked the idea of what the charity does to help young people.”

Gemma said the pandemic had presented new opportunities to deliver its vital work.

“They have had an online forum for some time and there is a chat that people can go on 24/7,” she added.

“You can post music, message people and there is also a private chat available.”

Gemma Wallace