I’ve been volunteering at the Orangery Cafe in St Mary’s Hospice for a year now and I honestly can’t believe how fast the year has been. Walking in on my first day I felt nervous and hesitant having a undeserving idea that the hospice would be overflowing with grief, despair and misery. I couldn’t have been more wrong! The hospice was glowing with warmth and I was met with welcoming smiles. My time here has made me realise what a truly wonderful place it is and how much our community needs us as much as we need them and their support.
The best part is when I get to listen to people’s stories and their incredible experience here giving me a sense of pride in what I do. I started because of my Duke Of Edinburgh but I decided to carry on until I leave for university and even then I know I will remember St Mary’s Hospice and the phenomenal volunteers and workers my whole life , hoping one day I can come back and help again.
Thank you to Lara for your amazing work on work experience and as a volunteer in our cafe!
Follow the link to find out more if you are interested in being a young volunteer.