"It's just so rewarding" – Volunteers share their experience of volunteering at St Michael's
Jim and Chris are two of more than 900 St Michael’s Volunteers
It’s often said that our volunteers are the lifeblood of St Michael’s.
Each has their own story, so we caught up with Jim and Chris to see what they get out of supporting their Hospice.
“What’s really different about St Michael’s is that anything you do is so genuinely appreciated… no matter how big or small,” said Jim Buckley, who along with wife Lesley has volunteered with us for many years.
“It’s just so rewarding. You meet great people and have the opportunity to do special things which can make a great deal of difference.”
Around one third of our 900-plus volunteers are male – and we would love to increase that number!
For Chris Brook, his role sees him take to the road to help others.
“I drive to the Hereford County Hospital pharmacy, picking up prescription medicine for patients currently staying at St Michael’s,” said Chris.
“I’m retired, and I feel I’ve taken quite a bit ‘out’ during my working life, so I’m just glad to be able to give something back.
“It feels good knowing I’m doing something good for people at a time when they need help, and I’ve been made to feel so welcome since joining as a volunteer.”
For Jim, having the freedom to pick and choose the hours he volunteers is a real draw.
“I’ve thrown paint at the Paint Runner, cooked burgers at the Plant Fair, carried flaming torches at the Wassail, and wheelbarrow-raced during a fundraiser with racehorse trainer Venetia Williams,” he added.
“I get to meet so many different people, and do things I otherwise wouldn’t have the opportunity to do. It’s really good fun, especially knowing your time is really helping with the vital work of St Michael’s.”
Without volunteers, our shops wouldn’t run, our events wouldn’t take place, and the care received by our patients – those staying with us, and day patients – wouldn’t be anywhere near as person-centred. Thank you to you all!