BLOG: Volunteering spotlight

Our volunteers are an integral part of the St. Catherine’s team, bringing energy, dedication, and heart to everything we do. From supporting patients and families to running our charity shops and café, we have more than 600 volunteers whose dedication makes an immeasurable difference. Volunteering not only helps our hospice thrive, but also offers the chance to learn new skills, meet people, and give back to the local community.

Hear what some of our brilliant volunteers had to say about their experience at St. Catherine’s: 

Lou Rogerson – 4 years volunteering – Counsellor

“My mother-in-law was terminally ill and looked after by the Clinical Nurse Specialists (CNS) team at home. They were brilliant and made me want to give something back, so I did a psychotherapy degree before completing my 100 hours training at St. Catherine’s, and now I’m a volunteer counsellor.”

Beryl – 40+ years volunteering – Reception

“When you’re retired, it’s great to feel like you’re doing something useful continuing to learn new skills. You get a sense of achievement, and everyone is working to a common purpose. I’ve made a lot of great friends over the years, and I’ve been a part of St. Catherine’s since it began in 1985.”

Carol Williams – 9 years volunteering – The Mill Café

“You go home and think you’ve done something you’re quite proud of that day because you’ve spoken to somebody who’s in a difficult situation. Having had cancer myself, I understand how it is.” 

Nick Gray – 5 years volunteering – Trading 

“Knowing the purpose of St. Catherine’s, it’s one of the most worthwhile things I could be involved in. Everybody has a quality or a skill they can use, in terms of their time and their ability – you’re never too old to get involved.”

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