Isabel Hospice has launched its 'Gift of Time' campaign, encouraging individuals to explore the transformative power of volunteering.

With the New Year approaching, it’s the perfect time to reflect on how you can contribute to the community. Don’t wait for January 1 to make a resolution — start making a difference today!

Volunteering for Isabel Hospice not only enriches the lives of those in the charity's care, facing terminal or life-limiting illnesses, but also brings countless benefits to the volunteers themselves.

Whether you are looking to gain new skills, meet new people, or find a sense of purpose, the Welwyn Garden City-based hospice offers a range of fulfilling opportunities for everyone.

Claire Hunt, senior people advisor at Isabel Hospice, said: “At Isabel Hospice, we believe in the power of community and the difference each person can make.

"Volunteering is a rewarding experience that creates a ripple effect of positivity.

"Whether you have a few hours a week or just a couple of hours spare on an ad hoc basis, there’s a role for you.

"You’ll not only support our vital services but also enrich your own life in ways you may not expect.”

 

Volunteering at Isabel Hospice

Isabel Hospice offers a variety of volunteering roles, from retail positions to patient-facing support and administrative tasks.

Volunteer roles are available seven days a week across multiple locations in eastern Hertfordshire and are open to anyone over 18.

The charity welcomes people from all backgrounds and abilities and no previous experience is necessary as training is provided.

Opportunities include:

  • Retail Assistant across the hospice's 17 shops – involves welcoming customers, managing donations and stocking the shop floor.
  • eBay Researcher – researching the background and value of varied donations, such as vinyl records or antiques, and checking and preparing donations ready for sale in the Hall Grove building in Welwyn Garden City.
  • Donation Sorter – assist in sorting the varied donations Isabel Hospice receives from preloved clothing, homeware, collectables and toys at the donation centre in Welwyn Garden City. 
  • Complementary Therapists – work as part of the complementary therapy team to provide massage, aromatherapy, reflexology, holistic facials, and reiki to patients and carers in the In-Patient Unit and Living Well centre, both in Welwyn Garden City.
  • Gardeners – the In-Patient Unit and Living Well Centre gardens are a haven of peace and calm for patients, visitors, and staff. Help maintain the garden areas whilst being a friendly face for patients and visitors.
  • Compassionate Neighbour – a chance to connect with individuals in the community who may feel isolated.

For more information about how to volunteer with Isabel Hospice and to apply, visit https://joinus.isabelhospice.org.uk/volunteer-with-us, email volunteer.office@isabelhospice.org.uk or call 01707 382500 (option 4) for personalised guidance on finding the right role for you.

 

Information sessions

Claire added: “We are holding several volunteer information sessions in the New Year which are a great way to learn more about the opportunities available and how you can get involved.

"But if you can’t wait till then, we urge you to act now. Visit our website or give us a call to explore our opportunities, become part of our incredible community and give the gift of time.”

Volunteer information sessions are an excellent opportunity to learn more about Isabel Hospice, meet the teams, and find a volunteer role that fits your skills and interests. 

These sessions will be held on: 

  • Wednesday, December 11, 9.30am to 2pm, at Gosling Sports Centre, Welwyn Garden City.
  • Tuesday, January 14, 6pm to 7.30pm at Bishop’s Stortford Rugby Club, Bishop's Stortford.
  • Saturday, January 18, 10.30am-12pm at Living Well, Hall Grove, Welwyn Garden City.

 

Isabel Hospice has been providing free care to its patients and their families since 1982.

It provides support and care to people in eastern Hertfordshire who are affected by life-limiting illnesses through its Hospice at Home, In-Patient Unit, Community Team, Living Well with Isabel programme and its family and bereavement support service.