We couldn’t do what we do at St Wilfrid’s without our wonderful volunteers. Richard is one of them and signed up to become a volunteer after we cared for his brother, Terry. Read on to find out more, in Richard’s own words.

“I’ve always been aware of St Wilfrid’s but hadn’t been in the hospice until my brother was an inpatient in 2015. Sadly, I also lost my niece there in 2024.

I knew it was a good place to be after they cared for my brother so well, so I started volunteering at the hospice in 2021. Since then, I’ve volunteered at the Donation Centre and café, and I now greet people coming into the hospice building. I also carry out checks on the water system.

I see how well patients are treated and the benefits of being at St Wilfrid’s. People are as happy as the circumstances allow, and visitors are taken back by the pleasant atmosphere.

Some people just come into the café for a cuppa and to socialise with friends, others come in on their own, just to have a chat with somebody.

When I speak to patients, they always say they were so relieved to get to the hospice. It would be very sad if we lost it due to lack of funds. Patients have their own rooms, visitors can come anytime and even pets are allowed in – and that makes a big difference. It brightens what’s left of your life.”

Pictured: Richard on duty at the Welcome Point; Richard’s brother Terry

Find out more about volunteering at St Wilfrid’s