To celebrate International Friendship Day on 30th July, we spoke to Janet McDonagh about her befriending role as a Community Support Volunteer (CSV) and why she chose to volunteer for St Wilfrid’s.

“I’ve been volunteering for St Wilfrid’s for about a year now, and my role as a CSV involves giving support in various ways to the people in our community – be it listening to their worries or concerns, general chatting, going for coffee, and being at the end of the phone when I’m needed.

“I enjoy my role very much and feel I can make a positive difference to someone’s life, even if it’s just in a small way. I love to talk but I’m also a good listener, which is just as important. It’s a two way street when volunteering – you get back as much as you give out!

“The reason I’m so passionate about volunteering for the hospice is because my own family has benefited from St Wilfrid’s, and I know how much of a vital role the hospice plays in our community.

“Once you come under hospice care, you never have to feel alone! When my lovely husband, Ted, was referred to St Wilfrid’s, everyone we met was so welcoming and helpful, and it seemed to me that they had all the time in the world to listen to us. I’m forever grateful to the hospice for all the help and support we received. 

“If someone was considering volunteering as a CSV for St Wilfrid’s, I would say “please do it.” It is so worthwhile, and you could really make a big difference to someone’s life.”

If you’re interested in becoming a Community Support Volunteer, you can find out more information here.