Our Stories

Volunteering is often used as a stepping stone to paid employment, and we’re delighted to share the good news that Alex has used her time at the Hospice to help her get into the world of work and now has a full-time job!

“The District Nurse visits my home weekly to take a blood test to see if I will need a transfusion. If the numbers are low, I’ll have either one or two bags transfused at the Hospice. If things are looking ok, I’ll come along and have a reiki session to help me relax.”

Matthew currently spends three days a week working between our Meadowfield Furniture & Homeware Store and Prince Bishops Shop, developing his employability skills.

Living Well Centre guest Vera tells us about the Creative Writing group she attends and what she enjoys about Hospice care.

“I used to paint years ago, but stopped when Tom took ill. I’ve got back into it thanks to nudges from my family. This particular one sparked lots of memories for me. I can be painting for hours and not realise, I just forget everything and it takes me away. I hope that people seeing the painting feel the same and are taken somewhere peaceful when looking at it.”

"If anybody is thinking about it, I’d say just give it a go. I hope you’ll enjoy it as much as I do. The Hospice is the most magical place ever. And they need your support."

“For me volunteering is stress-free, an enjoyable way to spend a few hours and it helps me to improve my English.”

“The best way to explain what coming to the Hospice is like, is receiving an invisible cuddle as soon as you walk through the door. It hasn’t taken me long to refer to this place as ‘home’."