St. Rocco’s has over 550 wonderful volunteers who assist staff in many aspects of their work. Some volunteers work directly with patients whilst others provide crucial support behind the scenes or in our shops.
Volunteering at St. Rocco’s can be an enriching and empowering experience. Not only does it give people a chance to do something to benefit others, it brings with it a sense of personal fulfilment and worth.
Why volunteer?
- To give something ‘back’ either to society or to the Hospice
- To meet new people
- To learn new skills
- To be part of a team
- To make new friends
- To gain experience for employment
Who volunteers?
- Students
- Those who wish to return to work
- Those who have a little time on their hands
- Those having a career break
- Those in retirement
- Parents with young children
- Those in full time work, looking for that ‘something else’
How much time do I have to give?
- On a regular basis , as little as 2 hours a week
- On an occasional basis (at events)
- ½ or full day in the shops
- On a ‘relief’ basis ( to cover sickness/holidays)
What can I do?
The opportunities listed below are not exhaustive, particular talents will be considered!
Car Drivers
Our volunteer drivers use their own vehicles to collect patients from their homes and bring them in to the Day Hospice and / or take them home at the end of the day. We also need peole who can provide transport for appointments throughout the day. We need to see your relevant driving documentation before you begin to drive for us.
Minibus Drivers
The Hospice minibus is used to bring patients to and from the Hospice. Drivers need to be over 25 with at least 2 years’ general driving experience. Full training is given before volunteers begin to drive the Hospice minibus.
Receptionists
The Hospice reception desk is staffed throughout the day with the assistance of a volunteer. In the evenings and at weekends the desk is staffed entirely by volunteers. In 2-3 hour shifts these volunteers greet visitors to the Hospice, answer the telephone and run the small gift shop.
Hospice Helpers
The volunteers on our In-Patient Unit help in a variety of ways; serving meals and drinks, looking after flowers, talking to patients and their relatives, keeping the beverage area clean and tidy. We have volunteer cover throughout the day and evening 7 days a week, usually in 2 hour shifts. Training is given before volunteers work in the unit. There is currently a waiting list for regular positions on the In Patient unit but a few vacancies for relief roles.
The Day Hospice has a volunteer each morning and afternoon to make and serve a welcome drink as the patients arrive. They chat with the patients and sometimes serve meals.
Family Support Workers
Volunteers with a counselling background may be able to help support some of our families through bereavement under the supervision of our Family Support Team. Click here for more information about the Family Support Team.
Shop Workers
The 7 charity shops throughout the town are run mainly by volunteers and provide a large proportion of our income. The shops are open 6 days a week and volunteers work for a minimum of half a day per week. Duties include receiving and sorting donated goods, displaying stock and serving customers. Click here for more information about St. Rocco's Hospice shops.
Fundraisers
Relying on the generosity of the people of Warrington, we need people to help in fund raising activities. This could be selling merchandise in the community, helping with events or organising activities on our behalf. We are also looking for people who are interested in being a part of our Volunteer Fundraising Group.
Events Helpers
A number of large and small events are held during the year and volunteers are needed to help in a variety of ways eg. as a marshal, serving refreshments or selling raffle tickets.
Van Drivers / Driver’s Mate
We need volunteers to help with the collection and delivery of furniture for our furniture shop, and also to help with recycling. The furniture van is based at St. Rocco's Hospice Furniture and Interiors shop at Bridgefoot. The van is used Monday -Saturday.
Gardeners
We have teams of volunteer gardeners to help care for our large grounds. People with an interest in gardening / landscaping are welcome to offer their services.
Volunteer Merchandise Distributors
Volunteers go out into the community to supply businesses and companies with merchandise, replenishing stock and collecting donations.
Administration/Clerical Roles
We have volunteers to help, either regularly or occasionally, with office duties (filing, book-keeping, photocopying, shredding).
