Mary used to be a nurse. Four years ago she decided to transfer her skills into a voluntary role at St Richard's Hospice where she provides assistance and companionship to people who are terminally ill.

'I've been working as a volunteer at St Richard's Hospice for four years now and I thoroughly enjoy it,' says Mary, who puts her earlier nursing skills to good use as a valued member of the hospice team.

'I come into Day Hospice as a bathing nurse and along with another trained volunteer, we help give patients a relaxing bath in specially-designed equipment - something they might not easily be able to manage at home.

'I also help out with fundraising for the hospice and driving patients to appointments when needed. I joined the hospice because I wanted to give something back to the community and I would really recommend anyone thinking about volunteering to find out more about helping in a hospice.

'Lots of people are worried that a hospice will be an unhappy place. But there are so many laughs as well as a few tears. It's not at all depressing and the people in Day Hospice want their time left to be happy. However, if there are sad times there is a great support network at St Richard's and plenty of time to talk things over.'

Mary's husband David, also helps out as a volunteer driver for the hospice, which celebrates its 20th anniversary this year. Last year alone more than 1,100 patients and families were cared for - over 60 per cent of all cancer patients in South Worcestershire.

St Richard's is an integral part of the community in Worcestershire and in addition to its 55 staff, there are over 600 volunteers, many of whom are specially trained to care for patients. All its services are free and include a Day Hospice, Home Care Team, bereavement counselling, 24-hour advice line and The Snowdrop Group for young women living with cancer.

Volunteer co-ordinator Mary Jenks says: 'Our volunteers are essential in helping us bring the highest level of care to our patients. They are highly valued members of the team, and with even more people wanting our help, we need more volunteers to meet those requests. It can be just a couple of hours a week or longer, depending on how much time you can spare.

'We need caring people in every area of the organisation - for example from shop volunteers, aromatherapists, drivers and those caring for patients in the Day Hospice to helping in the office or supporting bereaved families. We also urgently need more drivers to bring patients to Day Hospice for 10.30am and return home at 3pm, and also drivers to take patients to hospital appointments. We offer an induction course and specialist training for those who will be helping with patients.

'But it's not just what volunteers can give to others. There is a great atmosphere among the volunteers and people get to be part of a very friendly group.'

For more information on St Richard's Hospice visit www.strichards.co.uk

For more information on the Help the Hospices charity, visit www.helpthehospices.org.uk/

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