WORCESTERSHIRE’s St Richard’s Hospice is celebrating the support of hundreds of volunteers this week.
During volunteers week the hospice will join thousands of charities by recognising the contribution of volunteers across the UK.
St Richard’s volunteers gave more than 110,000 hours of their time to support the charity and there are now 790 volunteers working in 32 different roles.
Chief executive, Mike Wilkerson said, “Our volunteers support every aspect of hospice life, from patient and family care to administration, helping at fundraising events, gardening and working in our charity shops and warehouse.
“We are so grateful for all the time and dedication given by our fantastic volunteers. The time, skills and life experience they give to St Richard’s makes an invaluable contribution to our care.”
Tracy Perkins is a volunteer at a charity shop in Evesham who started after being made redundant from her job.
She said: “I enjoy the work in a shop environment and also the social side of being with colleagues and customers.”
Following a diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis (MS), Tracy has accessed a range of support from the teams at St Richard’s including counselling and Living Well Services.
“For someone contemplating volunteering I would simply say, do it.
“It is such a great experience and for such a worthwhile cause.”
The charity welcome coroporate volunteer teams, such as a recent join being Worcester City Council’s Corporate Policy and Strategy service, who spent the day taking on jobs in the courtyard.
Natalie Kemp, corporate strategy, performance and development officer said: “Volunteering at St Richard’s was such a rewarding experience and great way to learn about the invaluable service they provide to the community.
“The staff were welcoming and informative, and it really came across how important volunteers were to the running of the hospice and ensuring its future.
“Being such a bright and positive place, it was a pleasure to spend time there doing something to benefit others. I would encourage others to find out more and support where possible.”
Visit: trichards.org.uk/support-us/volunteering/ to find out more about volunteering.
