Volunteers have been hailed for their “dedication, loyalty, passion and commitment” at the start of a celebration week thanking them for their invaluable contribution. East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH) Chief Executive Phil Gormley was speaking at the beginning of the 39th annual Volunteers’ Week, which gets underway today and runs until next Wednesday (7th June).
It is a chance to recognise the contribution people make within their communities and is supported by small, grassroots organisations as well as larger, household-name charities. EACH is no different and blessed with an army of nearly 2,000 volunteers, all of whom give their time to help the charity continue its vital work supporting families and caring for children and young people with life-threatening conditions.
“Our extraordinary volunteers inspire me every day,” said Phil.
“Their dedication, loyalty, passion and commitment is unstinting and they remain at the heart of everything we do. That’s why Volunteers’ Week is so important on our calendar because it gives us a chance to pause, celebrate and say a heartfelt thank you.
“Their support, time and effort is vital and hugely appreciated and we wouldn’t be able to do what we do without them. Together, we can make a difference.”
EACH volunteers lend their time in a variety of ways, from supporting the Retail and Fundraising teams to lending a hand at one of its three hospices and signing up for its Help at Home service. They range in age and come from a variety of backgrounds, with differing skillsets.
“Some have been volunteering for years and others have joined more recently,” added Phil.
“Collectively, it’s hard to overstate their incredible impact and such diversity is a real strength. Of course, we can always do with extra help and I’d wholeheartedly encourage anyone to step forward and join us.
“It’s worth stressing that there’s more than one way to volunteer. There are lots of things people can do, to suit their interests, and it’s a way to gain valuable new skills and experiences, as well as boosting confidence.
“It doesn’t matter if you can only offer a couple of hours a week or even fortnight. A little help makes a big difference.”
Anyone interesting in joining the team and finding out more can email volunteerservices@each.org.uk or click here. EACH has hospices in Norfolk, Suffolk and Cambridgeshire, in addition to 47 Retail shops in the heart of communities across East Anglia.
