My name is Maggie and since the 15th March 2016, I have volunteered at The Mary Stevens Hospice. Over the last six years I have been on quite a journey and have volunteered in many different departments, in many different roles and have met a variety of new people, staff, like-minded volunteers and supporters of the Hospice.
My journey began in Lymph Care where I covered clerical duties such as greeting patients and sorting through lots of files. From Lymph I went on to offer my support on the In-Patient Unit. This was a lovely experience because it enabled me to see first hand the incredible care that patients and their families receive from the Hospice. This is where I trained as a Bereavement Support Officer and I worked with a fabulous team and found this particular work incredibly rewarding.
Most recently during these unprecedented times, I have become a permanent volunteer in the fundraising office, helping the team as they navigate new ways of fundraising in response to the Covid-19 pandemic. I am regularly at fundraising events, accompanied by a fantastic group of dedicated volunteers. You will find me providing refreshments to our supporters, pop along and say hello!
My highlights of volunteering include working with passionate and committed people and being involved in all of the incredible events is really special. Each event is so different, I enjoy them all.
If I was asked by someone ‘should I become a Hospice volunteer?’ I would say… do it! There are so many ways in which you can help, you can choose to give as much or as little time as you can and choose the events you want to help at. The fundraising staff will support you and there will always be other volunteers to show you the ropes. There is always a lovely atmosphere at each event, it’s great fun and you will be doing something worthwhile.
Exciting times are on the horizon in my volunteering journey as myself and fellow volunteer Diane have set up our own fundraising group, as part of the Friends of Mary Stevens Hospice campaign, our group will see us fundraising in the community and running our own events. You could volunteer and be a Friend of Mary Stevens Hospice too by emailing James at info@mshfundraising.co.uk or getting in touch on 01384 377 778.