Kath and Terry, receptionist and maintenance support volunteers, have been helping at the Hospice for four years.

Kath and Terry first decided to dedicate some time to the Hospice after taking early retirement.

"We still felt that we had something to offer and for us personally the Hospice was the obvious choice. We find being volunteers is very rewarding and it is wonderful to be part of such a caring team. We have also made some great friends whilst being here."

You may find Kath on reception within the in-patient unit, or Terry who provides maintenance support, perhaps painting a corridor, or fixing something within the building.

Val Lewis has been volunteering for six years as a gardener.

"I love to work within the garden here at the Hospice and take away with me at the end of the day a feeling that I have helped create something that patients will enjoy,and that I hope will brighten their day."

Gillian Lewis has been volunteering as a hairdresser for two and a half years.

"When my father was ill, over 20 years ago, he was cared for at home by my mother. She had no respite and was his full time carer. I feel that the work the Hospice does is fantastic and for it to be able to carry on providing respite amongst many other services, it needs volunteers like myself.

The Hospice is a really calm, peaceful place, the gardens are immaculate, all the staff are incredibly friendly, helpful and are very serious about their work."

An interview with Jimmy Glennon, a gardening and chaplaincy volunteer.

How long have you been volunteering at the Hospice?
About three and a half years.

Why did you decide to volunteer?
I retired and wanted to do something worthwhile and useful. I am a retired clergyman and I had heard about the Hospice through my parish and read about it in the local newspapers.

What do your roles at the Hospice involve?
Gardening involves watering, planting, growing flowers and in the winter doing whatever job need doing such as tending to the compost. Working in the garden I got to know patients and I realised I could do more so I volunteered to help the chaplain. This involves talking and listening to patients and their families, being there for them and, when requested, celebrating Holy Communion.

What do you enjoy about volunteering at the Hospice?
It is a joy to work here. The Hospice is such a happy place to be and there is such a lovely atmosphere. I don't feel pressurised or stressed and I feel I am doing something worthwhile whilst I still can. Everyone is so kind and you get to meet such wonderful people, both the staff and the patients