Tag: Volunteers

Posted on by

Join our Online Sales team and help turn donations into vital care

Do you enjoy discovering hidden treasures, researching unusual finds or selling items online? If the answer is yes, we’d love to hear from you.

Our Online Sales team, based at our Clearance Outlet and Donation Centre on Langham Street (off Oldham Road) in Ashton-under-Lyne, is looking for friendly and enthusiastic volunteers to join our growing department.

No two days are the same. You could be sorting donations, researching interesting items, taking photographs, packing orders or preparing listings for our online selling platforms. Donations can include everything from ceramics and vinyl records to clothing, books and electrical items.

Volunteer hours are flexible between 9am and 4pm, Monday to Friday, so whether you can spare a morning, an afternoon or a full day, we’d love to welcome you to the team.

It’s an exciting time to get involved. Our Online Sales team manages our eBay, World of Books and Vintage Cash Cow platforms, and we’ve recently re-launched our Vinted page. Every item sold helps raise vital funds to support patient care at Willow Wood Hospice.

Ben Williams, who recently joined the team alongside Sally Dawson, said: “I’ve had my own eBay business for over three years. Since coming in, we’ve tried to streamline our processes and make everything more efficient, spending more time taking photos and listing items to raise as much money as possible to support patient care at the Hospice. It’s a fantastic place to work and a great time to get involved. Your role can be tailored around your skillset and what you’re interested in, so it really is varied and flexible.”

If you’d like to become part of our Online Sales team, please contact Lisa Pye, our Volunteer Services Manager, by emailing volunteering@willowwood.org.uk or calling 0161 330 1100 to find out more.

Posted on by

A friendly face and listening ear on our Inpatient Unit

Brenda Donnelly behind the desk on the Inpatient Unit at Willow Wood Hospice

For Brenda Donnelly, volunteering at Willow Wood Hospice is about giving something back.

Brenda, who lives in Hollingworth, joined the Hospice as a Visitor Liaison Volunteer on the Inpatient Unit in September 2025.

After a 16-year career as a hotel receptionist, she was perfectly suited to a role that combines welcoming people, offering support and helping families feel at ease during difficult times.

The Hospice has long held a special place in Brenda’s heart. Her father received care at Willow Wood before he died 12 years ago, and she always hoped to volunteer when she retired.

Now volunteering three mornings a week, Brenda helps answer phone calls, takes messages for staff and supports visitors and families. Her role also allows nurses and support workers to focus on patient care, while ensuring visitors always have someone available to help.

A typical shift can involve anything from offering refreshments and explaining more about the Hospice, to guiding visitors to where they need to go. Just as importantly, Brenda is there to provide a listening ear.

“I think it’s important that our visitors know there is always somebody willing to sit down with them to listen when they need to talk to somebody other than family,” she said.

One of Brenda’s most memorable moments came on her very first shift, when she welcomed a family whose loved one had just been admitted to the Inpatient Unit while nursing staff settled the patient in.

Brenda believes empathy is one of the most important qualities needed for the role, alongside confidence when speaking with visitors and families and the ability to provide accurate information.

Her advice for anyone considering becoming a Visitor Liaison Volunteer is simple: “Just be yourself and willing to lend an ear.”

What Brenda enjoys most is the sense of teamwork on the Inpatient Unit.

“I love the team, how they all work together and how I was made to feel very welcome and part of that team from day one,” she said.

She also says one of the highlights of every shift is being greeted by Julie Acourt, our Inpatient Unit Administrator.

“I have learned so much from her – she is excellent at what she does.”

For Brenda, volunteering means the world. It is her way of thanking Willow Wood for the care her father and wider family received, while helping to support others going through similar experiences.

Her message to anyone thinking about volunteering at the Hospice?

“Just do it, you’ll love it.”

Has Brenda inspired you to become a Willow Wood Hospice volunteer? Check out our Volunteer Vacancies page to see the exciting opportunities we have available and how you can get involved. 

Posted on by

A royal thank you for three dedicated volunteers

Three of our long-serving volunteers enjoyed a very special day at Buckingham Palace recently, in recognition of their outstanding commitment to the Hospice.

Steve and Pauline Giblin, from Ashton-under-Lyne, and Colin Hearnshaw, from Dukinfield, were invited to Royal Garden Parties after being nominated by senior members of the Hospice team.

Steve and Pauline have dedicated a combined 31 years of volunteering to Willow Wood. Steve, a former Environmental Health Officer with Tameside Council, supports the fundraising team, volunteers as a photographer and has served as a Hospice trustee for the past year.

Pauline, who worked in NHS administration for 32 years, began volunteering in the lymphedema clinic before moving to the wellbeing team. She is also a member of the Willow Wood Hospice Choir, sits on the Flower Festival committee and helps with the monthly Coffee Mornings. Together, they continue to play a vital role.

The couple’s invitation now has pride of place, framed in their home.

Pauline said: “It was a surprise and an honour to receive our invitation to attend the first of this year’s royal garden parties, hosted by his Majesty, King Charles.

“On arrival at the Palace that day, we were warmly welcomed through the main gates by Palace staff and security officers and promptly treated to the most delicious afternoon tea, before strolling through the beautiful gardens in the grounds of the Palace.

“It was almost like being on the set of a film, with everyone dressed in beautiful outfits and all this accompanied by the band playing by the lake – it was quite a surreal experience.

“The arrival of the Yeomen of the Guard signalled the imminent appearance of the Royal Family – their Majesties the King and Queen, The Princess Royal, The Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh, and the Duke and Duchess of Gloucester.

“It was truly a day we will never forget and we are so grateful for having been given that opportunity to attend a once-in-a-lifetime occasion.”

Colin Hearnshaw, 86, attended a second Garden Party with his youngest son, Keith.

A volunteer complementary therapist for 20 years, Colin has provided Reiki support to thousands of patients since joining Willow Wood in 2006 after retiring as a music teacher. Alongside his weekly volunteering role, he has shared his knowledge with fellow volunteers, doctors, nurses and carers, helping them develop their skills and gain qualifications.

Colin said: “It was a pleasant surprise to receive the invitation in the post a few months ago. It was a huge honour to be one of around 2,000 people there – my youngest son Keith and I had a great day out. It was a marvellous occasion and a real privilege. The gardens were beautiful.”

As he celebrates 20 years of volunteering, Colin says he hopes to continue supporting Willow Wood for as long as possible – a sentiment that perfectly reflects the dedication shown by all three volunteers honoured at Buckingham Palace.

Posted on by

Stalybridge couple’s devotion to Willow Wood Hospice inspires legacy giving

A Stalybridge couple who have volunteered at Willow Wood Hospice for over 15 years are helping to secure its future for generations to come by leaving a gift in their Will.

Joanne and Chris Hinds, both 62 and married for 27 years, first walked through the Hospice’s doors in 2006 when Joanne’s auntie Beryl received care there. It was during that time they met Beryl’s driver, Cyril, who ran the Hospice’s Coffee Mornings with his wife Barbara.

Joanne and Chris attended one of the events and were instantly inspired to support.

“If we can’t give up two hours a month to help, we need speaking to!” Joanne and Chris chuckled.

What began as helping out soon turned into something much bigger. Joanne and Chris became part of a team of volunteers who run the Coffee Mornings, who have become a community of friends, and the couple have since supported the Hospice in other ways.

Joanne served as a Receptionist for many years, while Chris is now a trustee. Together, they organise regular quizzes and two much-loved annual fundraising events – The Last Night of the Proms and the Festival of Christmas Music – which have raised thousands of pounds in vital funds for patient care.

Over the years, they have seen first-hand the impact of hospice care on patients and families from Tameside and Glossop.

Having known many people who have needed the Hospice’s services, Joanne and Chris wanted to do their bit to help ensure its essential care remains available long into the future.

“A few years ago, we were discussing Wills and we thought about leaving something for Willow Wood,” Jo explained. “Starting to think about life after death is an emotive subject and it can be difficult. The hardest part about making a Will is deciding what you want to do, particularly as a couple without children.”

Chris added: “We’re leaving a gift as a percentage of our estate. Even just one per cent can make a massive difference and leaves the bulk of someone’s Will to their loved ones. Today is always the right time to think about making your Will.”

Gifts in Wills fund the care of one in five patients at Willow Wood and are vital in providing compassionate, specialist and dignified care now and for future generations.

“Unfortunately the Hospice’s services aren’t fully funded so it’s reassuring to know that by leaving a gift in our Wills will help care for others – it’s our legacy to our community,” said Chris.

‘Anyone can leave a legacy’

Willow Wood Hospice has joined forces with 127 hospices across England, Scotland and Wales as part of the This Is Hospice Care campaign, encouraging local people to consider leaving a gift in their Will.

New data from Hospice UK reveals that gifts in Wills are the lifeline keeping the country’s hospices open, funding the equivalent of 400,000 nights of hospice care every year. However, 59% of the public are unaware that hospices like Willow Wood provide services free of charge.

It costs around £10,000 a day to keep the Hospice in Ashton-under-Lyne running. As a charity independent of the NHS, Willow Wood receives just 24 per cent of its annual funding from the government. The remainder comes from the generosity of the community – through gifts in Wills, donations, fundraising events, charity shop purchases, the weekly lottery, and volunteering.

Sam Duncan, Director of Fundraising and Communications at Willow Wood Hospice, said: “At Willow Wood Hospice, we’re here for our community, whether it’s supporting a partner to provide care at home, helping a loved-one process grief, or providing dignified and compassionate end-of-life care.

“Gifts in Wills make all of this possible, helping to fund the care of one in five of our patients. These legacy gifts ensure that vital support is there, not just for the person who is receiving hospice care, but for those closest to them.”

Catherine Bosworth, Director of Income Generation and Grants at Hospice UK, added: “Our ageing population means demand for hospice care will only continue to grow, so it’s vital that we do what we can to secure hospice care now. A gift in your will to a hospice doesn’t require parting with your money today, anyone can leave a legacy.”

For Joanne and Chris, the decision simply felt right.

After 15 years of unwavering dedication, their legacy will ensure Willow Wood Hospice can continue to care for local families when they need it most.

For more information about leaving a gift in your Will to Willow Wood Hospice, visit willowwood.org.uk/giftsinwills

Posted on by

A warm welcome for visitors when they need it most

When people arrive on the Inpatient Unit at Willow Wood Hospice, they can feel uncertain, emotional, and unsure of what to expect.

Being greeted by a friendly, reassuring face can make all the difference. That’s where the essential role of our Visitor Liaison Volunteers come in.

Hilary Platt, from Hyde, has been volunteering on the Inpatient Unit since November 2025, working once a week and combining it with her current job. Her role is simple, but incredibly meaningful.

As a Visitor Liaison Volunteer, Hilary is one of the first people patients and families meet when they come onto the unit.

Duties include being a friendly, familiar face; answering the phone, taking messages and directing enquiries to the appropriate hospice team; meeting and greeting visitors and guiding them to where they need to go; and replenishing refreshments in the family lounge.

The role does not involve using a computer, and no previous admin or medical experience is required.

Hilary has worked in a bank and other public-facing customer service roles, which helped her feel confident interacting with people – but she’s clear that formal experience isn’t essential.

“You don’t need to have any particular skills – you just need to be a people’s person and have discretion and empathy. Empathy is very important.”

Although Visitor Liaison Volunteers work independently at their own desk, they are never alone. Hilary is supported by Julie, our Clinical Administrator, as well as the wider Inpatient Unit team.

“You are well supported by Julie and the team who are amazing – they are just down the corridor or a phone call away. The team on the main reception are also very supportive, so you are not alone.”

Volunteers can choose from flexible shifts, either 9am-1pm or 1pm-5pm, making it easier to fit volunteering around work, family or other commitments.

For Hilary, the role is also deeply personal. Having had both her mum and uncle cared for at Willow Wood, volunteering felt like a natural way to give something back.

“Most people have not been to a hospice before so it’s good to put people at ease. I know how that feels because my mum and uncle were both here.

“Since then, I’ve always wanted to do something like this as a way of giving back. I can give my time and hopefully make a difference to other people at what is a difficult time in their lives.”

She describes the role as varied, rewarding, and emotionally fulfilling.

“You feel like you are appreciated and your heart’s full of love that you’re doing something really, really special.”

Visitor Liaison Volunteers play a key role in sensing what families need – whether that’s practical help, a familiar face, or simply space.

“If you think a family member needs help, don’t be afraid to approach. But if you feel like they want to be on their own, it’s alright to leave them on their own.

“Sometimes just saying hello or being there as a familiar face can mean the world to someone.”

If you enjoy working with people, can offer kindness and empathy, and want to make a real difference, the Visitor Liaison Volunteer role could be perfect for you.

To find out more, visit https://willowwood.org.uk/vacancies/volunteer-vacancies/

Your time could help make someone’s hardest day just a little bit easier.

Posted on by

Rita’s courage and years of support

We’d like to shine a spotlight on one of our wonderful volunteers – Rita Evans, from Hyde, who has received her badge for volunteering for an incredible 10 years at our Waterloo shop in Ashton-under-Lyne.

Rita, who is 79 years old, has brought kindness, laughter and friendship to everyone she meets.

She first joined the shop after moving to the area – she could see it from her flat window and thought volunteering there would be a lovely way to support Willow Wood, meet people and make new friends.

And that’s exactly what she did! As shop manager Kellie Moulton says: “Rita has made the most amazing friends whilst volunteering at our shop, enjoying nights out and holidays with them for which she’s forever grateful. She’s loved all the laughs and chats with our fantastic customers, and every minute of her time helping and supporting the Hospice as it’s such a special place.”

Recently, Rita has been undergoing treatment for lung cancer, but her positivity and dedication to supporting Willow Wood have never wavered.

Rita raised a fantastic £924.42 towards patient care at the Hospice.

In fact, she decided to turn a difficult moment into something inspiring. After being told her hair would fall out during chemotherapy, Rita chose to have her head shaved in the shop – surrounded by her friends, family, and loyal customers – to raise funds for the Hospice she loves so dearly.

One Saturday afternoon in October, Kellie took up the clippers and carried out the head shave. It was an emotional moment, but one filled with warmth, laughter and pride as Rita raised a fantastic £924.42 towards patient care at the Hospice.

“When Rita joined us, she quickly became my sidekick,” Kellie added. “She came in most days at the start and learned sorting, pricing and till work but then soon learned how to open up and close the shop, cashing up and banking, so she was able to cover my days off and my holidays.

“Without Rita by my side, I would have been lost some days. She has a heart of gold and is always willing to help no matter what. She has played a massive part in the shop from supporting me and other volunteers.”

Rita says she felt emotional but happy to do something good out of a horrible situation. She’s loved her role in the shop but, more than anything, she treasures the wonderful friendships she’s made along the way.

Thank you, Rita, for everything you’ve done and continue to do for Willow Wood Hospice.

Posted on by

Find out more about volunteering at our Clearance Outlet

If you’re thinking of giving back and making a difference in your community, this is the perfect opportunity to come along and find out more about volunteering with Willow Wood Hospice.
Our Clearance Outlet and Donation Centre on Langham Street (off Oldham Road) in Ashton-under-Lyne is holding a Volunteer Recruitment Day on Saturday 9th August from 10am to 2pm.
There are a range of flexible roles available – from helping with eBay and sorting through donations to being a Retail Assistant or a Driver’s Mate. You’ll get a glimpse of what’s involved in the video below…
What to expect on the day:
• Tours of the premises every hour on the hour
• Meet our friendly team in a relaxed environment
• Say hello to our mascot Woody!
• Enter our raffle to win a hamper worth over £50
Whether you’re looking to learn new skills, meet new people, or simply want to support a local cause, we’d love to see you there.
Come along and see how you can make a difference!
Posted on by

Flower Festival blooms again at Willow Wood with magical success

Hundreds of visitors visited the ninth annual Flower Festival at Willow Wood Hospice across a sun-soaked weekend to experience the spellbinding sights and floral delights.

The event has already raised over £6,000 towards patient care at the Hospice, based in Ashton-under-Lyne, with more money still to come in.

Guests who came on Saturday, May 10, and Sunday, May 11, wandered through an enchanting array of 21 floral displays which followed the theme of the magical world of Harry Potter.

The wizarding world of Hogwarts was reflected – from the Ministry of Magic and Quidditch, to The Prisoner of Azkaban and even Professor Pomona Sprout’s Herbology Class.

To further boost Hospice funds, each display had a price tag attached so they could be purchased by those in attendance and collected at the end of the festival.

The festival was officially opened on Saturday morning by Hospice patron Ellie Leach – a former Coronation Street star and Strictly Come Dancing champion – who cut the ribbon.

Adding an extra touch of Harry Potter magic on Saturday was Bill Andrew — the real-life driver of the Hogwarts Express in all seven films — who shared stories from behind the scenes and signed books and photos for delighted fans.

Visitors also enjoyed posing for photos with life-sized cutouts of Harry Potter characters, generously donated by Star Cutouts UK, which were available to buy at the end of the weekend to raise additional funds for the Hospice.

There were also refreshments served by a band of volunteers in The Hive, and Prosecco in the Garden Room, where there was card, craft, wooden craft, cake, tombola and raffle stalls for visitors to browse.

Outside in the Hospice’s picturesque gardens, guests basked in the beautiful weather while enjoying live music from the Mossley Ukulele Group and Mike Styan and friends on Saturday, and the Sounds Familiar Ukulele Band on Sunday.

The festival is organised by a committee of dedicated volunteers, comprising Eileen Smith, Ann Fee, Pauline Giblin, Christine Lucas, Sheila Redfearn, Lorraine Vaughton, Moya Evans and Pam Chadwick.

Speaking on behalf of the Flower Festival Committee, Eileen said: “It was an amazing weekend and the weather was glorious. We’re so grateful to everyone who came along to support the festival. A special thank you to our Willow Wood patron Ellie Leach for opening the event, and to Bill Andrew for travelling from Crewe to share his unique Hogwarts stories.

“We would also like to thank everyone who helped in any way — from arranging flowers and sponsoring displays, to working in the kitchen and manning the stalls. A big shoutout goes to Jeanette, Christine and John who work all year to handcraft cards, cushions, and wooden gifts — donating 100 per cent of their takings to Willow Wood.”

As the petals settle on another successful festival, the committee will soon start looking ahead to next year’s event — which will mark the 10th edition of this much-loved community celebration.

It costs £3.6 million a year for Willow Wood Hospice to continue providing its vital services to deliver compassionate care to patients from Tameside and Glossop with a life-limiting illness.

With only around 24 per cent of that total coming from the Government, the Hospice relies on the generosity of the community by making donations; organising or supporting fundraising events; donating or buying goods to its charity shops; leaving gifts in Wills; joining the weekly lottery or volunteering.

If you would like to organise your own fundraiser for Willow Wood, the Hospice’s Fundraising team can support you – contact fundraising@willowwood.org.uk or call 0161 330 7788.

Posted on by

Magical experience ahead at Willow Wood Flower Festival

Fans of Harry Potter are in for a treat as that’s the adopted theme for this year’s fundraising floral fundraiser event.

The much-anticipated Flower Festival returns to Willow Wood Hospice in 2025 for the ninth year, on Saturday 10th and Sunday 11th May.

Guided by a dedicated committee comprising Eileen Smith, Ann Fee, Sheila Redfern, Christine Lucas, Pauline Giblin, Judith Scott, Bernice Woodward and Lorraine Vaughton, this cherished annual event promises to be as vibrant as ever.

This year’s festival will be inspired by the theme of the magical world of Harry Potter. Throughout the weekend, visitors can immerse themselves in captivating displays, crafted by both individuals and groups.

While leisurely exploring the stunning exhibits, you can bask in the serenity of the Hospice’s picturesque gardens. Attendees will have the opportunity to purchase the showcased displays, adding a touch of beauty to their homes while making a difference to patients in our care.

The event will also include some life-sized Harry Potter cardboard cutouts to grab your photograph with, donated by Audenshaw business Star Cutouts Ltd. The licensed cutouts feature a range of Harry Potter characters that can be ordered online at mycardboardcutout.co.uk.

Members of the Flower Festival Committee and Lucy, our Community Fundraiser, with some familiar faces from the Harry Potter series

Star Cutouts Managing Director, Ian Ravey, said: “We thought it would be really nice to support Willow Wood Hospice and it’s an organisation I have had experience with, because they looked after my brother before he died. They rely on charitable donations so it is always good to help when we can.”

The cutouts – which normally cost around £40 each – will also be available to buy at the end of the festival by making a donation to the Hospice.

“We’re absolutely thrilled to be bringing the magic of Harry Potter to this year’s Flower Festival,” said the Willow Wood Hospice Flower Festival Committee.

“A huge thank you to Star Cutouts for their generous donation of the fantastic life-sized Harry Potter cutouts – they’ll add a fun element to the weekend, and we’re so grateful for their support in helping us raise vital funds for the Hospice.”

Bill Andrew, the driver of the Hogwarts Express in the Harry Potter films, will also be bringing lots of photos and signing copies of the books on the first day of the festival.

The Flower Festival will be open on Saturday 10th May from 10am to 4pm and Sunday 11th May from 11am to 4pm. Entry will be £3.50, with proceeds going to Willow Wood Hospice. Admission is free for children aged 12 or under. Light refreshments will also be available.

Parking at Willow Wood Hospice is restricted to patients, families, Blue Badge holders and the workforce. Alternative parking is available nearby at the Darnton Road Pay & Display car park (postcode OL6 6RL).

If you would like more information about the Flower Festival or you are interested in buying a cutout, please contact Eileen Smith on 07799 172 313.