Alison's volunteer story

My name is Alison and I volunteer at Welcome Wednesday Bereavement Café at Dove House.

When did you first start volunteering for Dove House?
I first started volunteering at the hospice in September 2022 after joining the Together in Grief Walk.

What made you want to volunteer at Dove House?
Following caring for my mum who sadly passed away with Covid I was looking for something to fill my spare time.

Tell us about your typical day volunteering.
I arrive at the Amy Johnson Unit at the hospice to set up the room ready for the group. I greet our service users, arrange tea and cake and make sure there are activities available like pool, bingo, jigsaws and crafts. The group is such a lovely bunch of people who come every week and share their feelings and stories and it is lovely to be part of that.

What would you say is the best bit about volunteering?
Making sure the group enjoys themselves is very fulfilling. Volunteering is good for my well-being and mental health.

Is volunteering at a hospice rewarding?
I find it very rewarding. The group are always ready to mix and chat with each other. If they leave smiling it’s a job well done.

Are there any fantastic moments that stand out for you?
We had a Christmas party with a delicious Christmas lunch. It was such a lovely day, everyone was in such good spirits and we even had a choir come in who were incredible.

If you could describe the volunteering at Dove House in three words what would they be?
Fulfilling, satisfying and enjoyable.

What would you say are some of the rewards of volunteering?
It has helped me with my own mental health, socialising with others and it gives me a purpose.

Has volunteering helped you in some way?
Volunteering has definitely helped after I lost my mum. I cared for her for several years and then suddenly I had all this time on my hands. Volunteering keeps me busy and active and I am very thankful for that.

What would you say to someone who was thinking about volunteering at Dove House?
I would certainly encourage anyone to give volunteering at Dove House a go. Even if it’s just for a few hours a week, it would help the hospice so much.