Volunteer experiences

“I just find volunteering at the Hospice really rewarding, the Hospice is such a happy, nice and relaxing place and it is good to be part of that. As well as gaining medical knowledge and experience being at the Hospice has also allowed me to meet a lot of different people.”

“There are so many things I have enjoyed so far but for me the most important things are probably those that have made a difference to the patients, for me that’s what it is all about. Sometimes it can be hard emotionally, especially when you speak to families but I have definitely grown stronger emotionally.”

“Volunteering at the Hospice is all about giving something back. Following the death of my husband, the Hospice really dug me out of a great big hole. They introduced me to the writing group and after that I suppose I just wanted to give something back, and I really enjoy it.”

“I volunteer at the Hospice because I enjoy it, because it gives me the chance to make a difference. I always think back to a time when I was on Reception, it was the first time I had witnessed the Hospice’s interview process – it was rigorous, which shows the effort the Hospice goes to, to get the right people.”

“It was completely out of my comfort zone, but soon enough I was doing things I’d never imagine I could do. Chatting with customers is very rewarding and you get a real mix of people with different needs coming in. It’s great to be of use.”

“I have time on my hands now I’m semi-retired and it’s so much better than sitting at home by myself. It’s nice knowing you’re doing something good and it doesn’t even feel like work – it’s 90 per cent fun.”