Isabel Hospice is delighted to relaunch its ‘Gift of Time’ volunteering campaign this December, running through into January, to celebrate the extraordinary contribution of volunteers and encourage others to give their time in the New Year.
Volunteers are at the heart of everything Isabel Hospice does. Following the recent announcement of service closures, the charity has been reminded just how vital volunteer support is — not only in maintaining its core services and supporting patients, families, and staff during challenging times, but also in fundraising and retail roles that generate the vital income needed to sustain hospice care.
The Gift of Time campaign shines a spotlight on the difference volunteering can make — not just to the hospice and the people it supports, but to the volunteers themselves. Many volunteers speak of the confidence, purpose, and fulfilment they gain, as well as the new friendships and skills they develop along the way.
Nikki, Hospitality volunteer, has been volunteering with Isabel Hospice for just over a year in the Inpatient Unit, helping to create a warm, calm and caring environment for patients and families.
“The most rewarding part has been knowing I may have made a difference to patients and families during very difficult times. The chats, the cups of tea, the little things that show someone cares. I feel privileged to support people through their final weeks and days.” – Nikki, IPU Hospitality Volunteer
Francis, Retail Volunteer, helps keep the Isabel Hospice shop in Welwyn Village welcoming, stylish, and full of donations that raise vital funds for Isabel Hospice.
“Volunteering in the shop is so rewarding — I know that every donation we organise and every customer we help directly supports families in our community. It’s a fun, welcoming environment, and it feels great to be part of something that makes such a real difference.” – Francis, Welwyn Village Retail Volunteer
Retail volunteers play a crucial role in keeping Isabel Hospice shops welcoming and well-stocked. Many volunteers enjoy the chance to meet customers, organise donations, and handle one-of-a-kind items, all while knowing their efforts help generate vital funds for patient care. Retail volunteering can also provide flexible hours, a friendly team environment, and the satisfaction of seeing the direct impact of your work in sustaining local hospice services.
Isabel Hospice currently has an urgent need for retail volunteers across its 17 shops in Hertfordshire, helping with customer service, managing donations, and keeping shops inviting. Volunteers receive full training and are part of a supportive, friendly team.
The Gift of Time encourages those considering a New Year’s resolution to think about giving back to their community in a meaningful way. Whether supporting patients in the Inpatient Unit, helping in a shop, being office based, or assisting in community-based roles, volunteering at Isabel Hospice offers a chance to make a real difference while gaining valuable experiences and personal fulfilment.
How to get involved: Visit the Isabel Hospice website here https://joinus.isabelhospice.org.uk/volunteer-with-us to see current roles available, email volunteer.office@isabelhospice.org.uk or call 01707 382500 (option 4) for more information.
