A Volunteer's Story

Becoming a Volunteer at the Hospice

When I was handed my pink apron and name badge, I knew that I was definitely a 'Pinky.’ That is what volunteers helping in patient areas are known as at the Mary Stevens Hospice. A new found role in life, and I had only just begun to draw my pension! Quite strange to be the 'new girl on the block.’ Or perhaps the new pinky. Whatever I was going to be, I felt sure that I had something to offer as a volunteer.

I have spent most of my working life in various caring roles and when I retired, I knew that watching the daisies grow or reading the latest paperback could never fulfil me. With time on my hands, I decided to explore what voluntary work was available. I had worked in a hospice shop some years ago so I was aware of the hospice movement and the valuable work that they do. I had nursed both my father and my mother with serious illness until they died so I certainly know the hard work involved in caring for very sick people.

I saw an advert for volunteers at the Mary Stevens Hospice so I thought I would phone up and find out what being a volunteer was all about. My first contact was with the volunteer co-ordinator Pauline and we fell into an easy conversation about the work of the hospice and what I felt I could offer as a volunteer. Formalities included filling in an application form, personal details for a CRB check and eventually an interview.

From day one after my application, I felt valued. I had some skills to offer but just to be involved in any sort of work in this caring establishment was of the utmost importance to me. Even making cups of tea or coffee for people who need it, is a very worthwhile contribution. After all the formalities, I undertook a day’s education at the hospice to obtain a certificate in food safety and catering. (I passed along with all the other 'students.’) The tutor was excellent. After this training, I rushed home and sterilised my fridge and kitchen worktops!

My role at the hospice involves working in the residential unit. I have never made so much tea and coffee, but what a wonderful opener to offer comfort to anybody who needs a bit of support and a friendly face. I feel privileged to support residents and their families in circumstances that are often very difficult for them.

All the volunteers have something to offer. In therapies, day hospital, administration, reception, catering, gardening and of course making tea. A much-valued band of people who have a host of skills to share

I see myself as a small cog in a big wheel. Even the little cogs are needed and valued. The Hospice is a very special place and the staff are very special people. Anybody who comes through the door feels welcome, respected and will find support and unequalled care.
We all pass this way but once so if there is any kindness or time to give then give it. The rewards are priceless.

I feel proud to be part of this organisation and appreciated for what I do. Becoming a volunteer in this lovely place was probably one of the best decisions I have ever made.

Pat Orchard
(A relatively new volunteer)

The Story Continues - 12 months later.

I am pleased to say that I have been a pinky at the hospice now for almost a year. I am secretly very proud of my pink 'uniform,’ it is a silent statement of my role at Mary Stevens Hospice. I know that I am a valued member of an organisation that provides very high standards of care to all those that need it. The staff are ambassadors of the special care that is available to patients and their families. Exceptional levels of care and attention are maintained throughout very trying times for those who come to the Hospice.
I am amazed at the diversity of talents that people have to offer be they staff or volunteers. The therapies are 'Five star’ and the comfort they give to patients and their families are a testimony to their value.

I love walking through the day hospital and seeing the staff and volunteers engaged in their various tasks. Laughter, chatter, cups of tea. Hugs and care. The human things that we all enjoy.

The 'man hours’ (or pinky hours) that I have actually worked, probably don’t add up to very much but in personal satisfaction, the few hours that I work each week provide me with a mountain of pleasure. I meet some wonderful people and I often feel that they give me far more than I give them. The patients are the V.I.P’s and as a 'pinky’ it is a remarkable opportunity to work with them and contribute in some way to offer comfort and dignity to people who are experiencing very trying times. The cups of tea and coffee that I make every week are always appreciated and often provide an opportunity to enter into comfortable conversation with families and their loved ones.

I have just attended the social evening for the volunteers, which was held at the Stourbridge Golf Club. Pauline, our volunteer co-ordinator and nursing staff paid warm thanks to us all. The sight of all the smiling faces confirmed the pride that we all feel to be part of the ' big team.’ I learned too that there are over 170 people that work in a voluntary capacity. This proves even more, just how much
enthusiasm local people have to support such a worthwhile cause.

Working at the hospice has enriched my life more than I ever thought. It is like being part of a big caring family who are always there for any body who needs them, including me. The happy atmosphere gives a great deal of reassurance to all who come. The warmth of this place certainly rubs off on me! My 'Wednesday Friends’ have become very dear to me and we always share plenty of laughter. Occasionally we share a few tears too.
The whole place exudes love and compassion. Even the goldfish in the lounge seem to be very happy and content and certainly well looked after!

The Hospice is a shining light in this often-hurried world. Long may it exist, to support all those who seek comfort when they need it.

Pat Orchard