Okky’s Volunteering Story
“When I learned about the hospice, I was eager to contribute in some way. Family is very important to me, so to be able to support local families means a lot.
“The catering team plays a part in the overall care experience that patients and their families receive, and I am proud to support with this”, explains Okky Septiany, who has been volunteering for St Elizabeth Hospice since March 2026.
Every year, more than 4,000 people living with a progressive or life-limiting illness, and their families, are supported throughout East Suffolk, Great Yarmouth and Waveney by the free specialist palliative care provision of St Elizabeth Hospice.
This care is provided by hospice staff who operate throughout the region, but who are supported by a fantastic team of volunteers, like Okky, whose generosity enables St Elizabeth Hospice to continue evolving its services to care for more people in the local community.
Okky, who is from Indonesia, has been in the UK for 5 years and lives locally in Ipswich. “Becoming part of the community was a big part of my motivation for volunteering at the hospice,” she said.
“During my days here I get to talk to so many new people, giving me the chance to learn about different cultures and listen to their points of view. I love meeting people and hearing their stories.
“It has also given me a great opportunity to practice my English skills, and my confidence in speaking English has grown so much since I started here.”
Okky says that she really enjoys being a part of the team. “Everyone at the hospice is so kind, and the atmosphere is warm and friendly.
“I don’t have a background in catering, but the team were patient as I learned new skills and it’s never a problem if someone makes a mistake. I feel that people here understand me and my journey.
“On a typical volunteering shift in the Catering Team I might be stocking the fridge, washing dishes, refilling the coffee machine, preparing the salad bar or taking orders from customers.”
For Okky, one of the best things about volunteering for the charity is the flexibility it offers. “I volunteer once or twice a week, depending on my other responsibilities – the team at the hospice are very understanding.
“Outside of the hospice I work part-time as a cleaner for a care agency. I also volunteer with an organisation called Future Female Society, that aims to build confidence for women and girls in Suffolk.
“As part of this, I host a weekly podcast that teaches new skills to migrant, refugee and asylum-seeking women.
“As someone who moved to the UK five years ago, I know how daunting it can be when you first arrive, and how important it is to build confidence – something that my role at St Elizabeth Hospice has really helped me with.
“I would encourage anyone to give volunteering at the hospice a try. When you volunteer, you are always learning! It’s a great way to give back to your community and you’ll feel the rewards personally, too.”