A day in the life of much-loved volunteer, Ann
For many of our volunteers, their role is a continuation of a long-standing relationship with the Hospice, our cause, our people and the wider community. This is very much the case for Ann, who volunteers in reception at our offices at The Well and also helps our incredible Lymphoedema team with their administration tasks. Ann told us;
“I have supported the Hospice in many roles over many years but this is the first time I have taken on tasks as a volunteer.
“I do 2 half days a week at reception on a Wednesday and a Friday. The hours were to suit me so I chose 10.30 – 2.30. On a Friday I help Eleanor with the admin for the Lymphoedema Services. It is very rewarding to know that you are actually helping with the processes involved with this patient service. “On a Wednesday I do a similar shift but in the Well Reception which is great as I get a variety of admin and reception tasks to do and get to meet lots of lovely staff members who are so friendly and welcoming to me.
“I decided to become a volunteer when the IT Training business that I had run for nearly 30 years was abruptly forced to close when COVID-19 stopped allowing face to face contact. I couldn’t sit idle so came back to the Hospice to see if they could keep me busy. I tried shop work at first but, as I’ve always been office based, it didn’t take long for the Volunteer Services Department to find me an admin role which was more suited to my skills. There is always some role that would be suitable for anyone no matter what they used to do.
I would urge anyone with time on their hands (or who could juggle their life to find time to spare) to come and be a volunteer at the Hospice. It is such a well-known charity in Milton Keynes and the work of this Hospice and all the Hospices around the UK is held in such high regard that there is immediate respect and thanks when you can say that you are a volunteer at Willen Hospice.
The benefits to any volunteer here are enormous. A feeling of self-worth, something to keep your brain active and for those who are retired a reason to get out of bed in the morning. (Although when it’s cold and raining I do wonder about that sometimes!) I just hope I can go on for a while longer helping this amazing charity to flourish.”
Find out more about Hospice and office based volunteering roles.
