From supporting people to stay independent to keeping the gardens looking beautiful, volunteers are a vital support across all areas of Mountbatten’s work. The roles may be many and varied, but the volunteers all have one thing in common; they want to support Islanders and their families facing death, dying and bereavement when they need Mountbatten the most.
Whether you have a few hours to spare and want to give something back, or you want to meet new people and gain new skills, Mountbatten has many opportunities available to people over the age of 18.
Mountbatten – formally known as Earl Mountbatten Hospice – are holding a Volunteer Open Day between 12:00 and 14:00 on Thursday 26th April at the John Cheverton Centre, to allow potential volunteers to find out more about what is on offer and what it means to be part of the outstanding team.
Volunteers are crucial to Mountbatten’s work; it relies on people’s generous donations of time and skills to help continue to be there for those in need. Mountbatten is already fortunate to benefit from the continued support of around 500 volunteers.
Currently, more volunteers are needed in the following areas:
- Maintenance team – carrying out collections and deliveries of items and moving equipment to support people in their own homes
- Volunteer drivers – who support people to be able to visit the John Cheverton Centre, particularly later in the day and early evening
- Shops – supporting shop managers to provide the very best customer service and raising vital funds to continue services
- On the ward – supporting patients by bringing them meals and drinks throughout the day and evening.
- Gardens – making sure the gardens at Mountbatten Hospice are looked after and replanted through the year for the enjoyment of everyone
- Sunflower Café – which is open throughout the week, in the evenings and at weekends, offering delicious meals and refreshments to the public, patients and families.
- Events – helping the fundraising team to organise, plan and raise funds to support for Mountbatten’s work.
A spokesperson for Mountbatten has said:
“There are other opportunities available, so please don’t be put off if you don’t see something that immediately interests you. Come along to our Open Day and chat to our friendly staff and other volunteers about other roles that might be suitable. In return for your time, we offer you the chance to develop new skills and you will receive training and on-going support, while you make a hugely valuable contribution to the Island’s leading end of life care charity”.
Anyone who is able to volunteer will be able to start as soon as possible, with induction sessions being held on Wednesday 2nd and Wednesday 9th May 2018.
For more information, see https://www.mountbatten.org.uk or drop in to the open day on Thursday 26th April.
