Richard began volunteering at St. Rocco’s 2 years ago and volunteers once a week on the In- Patient Unit and as a messenger.
After making initial plans to retire, Richard made his first volunteering move by training to become a ‘Guide Runner’ for visually impaired runners. However, due to Covid, he was unable to continue. Richard decided to look at alternative ways that he could give something back during his spare time.
While browsing the St. Rocco’s website, Richard noticed the Hospice was looking for volunteers on the In-Patient Unit, and after spending his life working in hospitality Richard knew he would have something to offer.
Richard’s first day on the ward was a significant step for him. He knew it would push him out of his comfort zone and present a challenge, as the role would involve supporting with patients and families dealing with palliative and end of life care. Looking back now, Richard wonders why he had been so fearful.
“The ward often has a real buzz about it, and it is easy to see that those tasks I undertake make a positive difference to the experience of patients, visitors and staff alike.”
Whilst volunteering on the IPU, Richard’s responsibilities include, offering drinks to patients and visitors; serving snacks and meals; giving time for a welcome chat; tidying up the satellite kitchen area; refreshing the many floral displays and ensuring on a busy day ward staff get a cuppa! Richard sees the role as adding value by helping the clinical team to focus on patient care, while having the chance to support patients and their families during their time at the Hospice.
“The experience gives me a greater sense of self-esteem; of being valued; being part of a team; being appreciated. A sense of belonging; a real sense of achievement.”
After his first year of volunteering, Richard took up the role of Messenger. This role is a lot more varied but just as beneficial to supporting the Hospice team by running essential errands outside of the Hospice. This role involves the delivery of items for the Hospice Medical Outpatient Team, delivery and collection of items to and from the hospital for our In Patient Unit, supporting our kitchen staff to provide special meal request for patients and supporting our Income Generation teams with delivering of fundraising items such as, donation boxes and event promotional materials.
“The support given to me by the Voluntary Services team has been great, and the gratitude shown by all staff members and by relatives and friends who have visited St. Rocco’s supporting a loved one through their end of life journey is truly humbling.”
Each volunteering day is different, and Richard cherishes the time spent with other volunteers, sharing stories and being part of a warm and friendly team.
“If you haven’t thought about volunteering, you should. I would recommend it to anyone.”
Richard is proud to say he volunteers at St. Rocco’s Hospice. He always goes home knowing he has added value to the Hospice by gifting his time. To him, the role is grounding, it helps put life into perspective and is deeply rewarding and worthwhile.
If you would like to learn more about our volunteering and what roles we have currently, click here.
Or contact our Voluntary Services Team to arrange a taster session on T: 01925 575780, E: volunteering@stroccos.org.uk.
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