Local hospices say ‘cheers’ to volunteers

Chestnut Tree House and St Barnabas House thank volunteers for helping them provide hospice care for local people – now and in the future.

The local hospices rely on the support of volunteers and are taking the chance during Volunteers’ Week (1-7 June) to reflect on some of the incredible ways people get involved and make a difference.

“There are lots of volunteers who are unable to do their usual roles for the hospices at the moment due to the current situation,” says Mark Francis, Head of Voluntary Services at Chestnut Tree House and St Barnabas House. “It’s really important to not only take this time to reflect on the amazing support our volunteers give us, but also to acknowledge that they are all hugely missed at this tough time.”

Whether greeting people on reception, keeping the gardens fresh and trim, supporting the fundraising team, helping in charity shops, or getting out and about in the local community, volunteers make a big difference to the hospices.

Here, we catch up with Nikki, a volunteer with the activities team at Chestnut Tree House children’s hospice to hear about her role.

“I enjoy working with the team for many reasons, but at the heart of all of these is helping children and young people make the most of their time at Chestnut Tree House. The team provide a variety of fun-filled activities (including storytelling, cooking and arts & crafts) and the volunteers also play a supporting role at special events like the visiting farm and New Year's Eve party”says Nikki.

“We assist with changing the theme of the Magic Carpet room, keeping the messy play area accessible and tidy, and accompanying outings outside in the countryside. One highlight was when Hawking About birds of prey came to visit the hospice. Unfortunately, the weather was wet and windy and not suitable for an outside display. However, it was decided that the show should go ahead and that it would take place indoors! I will never forget the looks on the children's faces as the wild birds of prey flew low overhead and how, having been kitted out with leather gloves, all the children and their siblings were able to have a bird rest on their hand and see the beautiful creatures up close. It was a wonderful experience for everyone.”

Judith Cross volunteers in the beautiful gardens at St Barnabas House hospice.

“I’m a horticulturist, so when I retired I looked for somewhere I could volunteer as I love gardening and my garden is very small,” says Judith. “I love it here at St Barnabas - the people, the place, and the gardens. Being at the hospice is nothing like I expected - it is such a friendly place, and everyone is always smiling. Volunteering is great as it is so flexible, and I have a great working relationship with the team. I just love being a gardening volunteer!”

Mark Francis says: “There is no greater gift someone can give to another person than time. Every day we have is precious and that so many volunteers choose to make the gift of using their time helping others through our volunteering opportunities is something that we cherish at Chestnut Tree House and St Barnabas House. I hope that Nikki, Judith, and every volunteer, knows how much we value their commitment to the work we do together, helping people every day. We hope we can see all our volunteers again soon.”