“Hearing how much clients value the service keeps me motivated.”

Meet Ruth - a volunteer at Isabel Hospice Shop in Cuffley When Ruth Salter left her busy and social role as Buying Manager for Tesco Stores Ltd, she was instantly in a position as carer for her elderly parents and in-laws. Compassionate by nature, Ruth was very happy to take on such a heavy responsibility and it acted as a distraction from what she had recently given up in her working life. However, when Ruth found herself caring for just one parent, due to the spare time and lack of interaction with others, she started to feel isolated and bored. Ruth has now been a valued shop volunteer for Isabel Hospice, working in the Cuffley branch, for five years. Here she talks about her experience so far… Why did you decide to start volunteering? As a keen shopper, I started to pop into my local Isabel Hospice shop in Cuffley. It was a great place to go, and it ‘got me out of the house’, getting back into the community. The staff were really friendly and welcoming and it felt like having friends again. Applying to volunteer there was the obvious next step. How often do you volunteer for Isabel Hospice? I volunteer once a week and have a regular shift. It was an easy process and very flexible, I was able to pick shifts that work around me. I also help out at different events. Last month I helped on an Isabel Hospice vintage stall at Kings Cross in London, it was great fun! I volunteer once a week and have a regular shift. It was an easy process and very flexible, I was able to pick shifts that work around me. I also help out at different events. Last month I helped on an Isabel Hospice vintage stall at Kings Cross in London, it was great fun! How has volunteering changed you? I am part of a team again. I have purpose and am making a difference which makes me happy. Volunteering has maintained my independence, I’m not just mum, wife or nan, it has given me a real sense of purpose in the community. What is the best thing about volunteering? That’s a tough question, as there are so many benefits. But based on my personality and what I enjoy most, I would say I get to have a good laugh with my colleagues and customers. What would you say to someone considering volunteering? Do it, there is so much to gain. It will make you live happier, longer and stronger. You will never feel isolated and you’ll not only share your skills with others but develop new ones too ! Finally, would you recommend volunteering to others? I would recommend volunteering to everyone, it is so rewarding on a personal level, but at the same time GIVES to others, at a time when support and love is the most precious gift. We would like to take the opportunity to thank Ruth for all of her amazing volunteering support over the past 5 years, and look forward to many more! If you would like to become a volunteer for Isabel Hospice, or if you are a volunteer and would like to tell your story, please contact [email protected]

"I have been a volunteer for one of the adult groups at HIT for over 3 years now. From the very start I was made to feel welcome by all of the team and participants. I love how all session leaders always involve everyone, including volunteers, during sessions. We all have an active part to play in the production process. This is quite unique, and is one of the reasons I continue to volunteer my time each week. There's a real feeling of togetherness and friendship in the group I really enjoy my time volunteering at HIT, and as much as I give, I feel I gain a whole lot more! The community that surrounds HIT is special to be a part of.” Naomi, HIT Volunteer

It is truly heart-warming to see the impact that volunteering can have on individuals and communities. Edwin's story is a testament to the power of giving back and finding a sense of purpose. As a refugee from Honduras, Edwin faced numerous challenges when he arrived in the UK. However, his determination and commitment to making a positive difference led him to reach out to GoVolHerts and express his interest in volunteering at Stagenhoe. Upon meeting Edwin, it was evident that his dedication knew no bounds. Despite having to walk for over two hours to get to our meeting, he arrived with a smile on his face and a willingness to contribute. With the help of our Spanish-speaking staff members, we were able to communicate effectively and explain the volunteering role to Edwin. Since joining our team, Edwin has been volunteering three days a week, working diligently within the grounds of Stagenhoe. His hard work and dedication have not gone unnoticed, and we are incredibly grateful for the contributions he has made to our organisation. Edwin's commitment to his role is truly inspiring, and his presence has enriched our Stagenhoe family. While Edwin's volunteering efforts have undoubtedly benefited our organisation, it is important to recognise the personal benefits he has gained as well. Through volunteering, Edwin has found a sense of worth, a routine, and a sense of normality. These intangible rewards are invaluable and contribute to his overall well-being and integration into the community. But Edwin's impact doesn't stop there. His wife, Nilda, has also joined our team, thanks to the support we provided her in obtaining a food hygiene qualification. Nilda now works alongside our kitchen staff, further strengthening our Stagenhoe family. Additionally, Edwin's friends, Evelyn and Daniel, have also become part of our community, assisting with various tasks within the grounds. The story of Edwin and his loved ones is a testament to the transformative power of volunteering. It showcases how a simple act of giving back can not only benefit an organisation but also provide individuals with a sense of purpose, belonging, and stability. At Stagenhoe, we are incredibly grateful for Edwin's dedication and the positive impact he has made on our organization. We are proud to have him, Nilda, Evelyn, and Daniel as part of our family, and we look forward to continuing this journey together. If you are considering volunteering, we encourage you to take that step. You never know the profound impact you can have on both yourself and the community around you. “I am very grateful that I can help Stagenhoe and give back to the community. It is a pleasure and it helps me to get out of the hotel and receive love from everybody” Edwin If you would like more information about volunteering here at Stagenhoe please contact [email protected]