A long-serving volunteer says words cannot describe the fulfilment she gets from helping at sibling support groups run by East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH).
Sarah Dixon regularly helps at days specifically for children who are either bereaved or have a brother or sister receiving care at The Nook.
They take place in school holidays and range from activity days at the hospice to trips to places like Norfolk Snowsports Club, Escape Hunt and Quasar.
Sarah has been a dedicated sibling support volunteer for nearly eight years, previously helping at Quidenham, EACH’s former Norfolk hospice, as well as being a friendly face at family fun days and Christmas events.
“I’ll do whatever’s needed,” said the 61-year-old, who was speaking during Volunteers’ Week. The national initiative is an opportunity to thank those who spare their time for the invaluable role they play.
“Whenever I tell people I help in a children’s hospice, they always say ‘that must be hard’.
“However, I always tell them it’s a wonderful place, and it’s hard to describe the feeling I get from doing what I do.
“I feel privileged to be part of lots of great, memorable events and think I have as much fun as the children!
“Over the years, I’ve got to know many of the siblings, and it’s been fantastic watching them grow from children into lovely young people.
“I love seeing them interact, their confidence grow and friendships developing.
“They’re such important days and everyone gets on well and enjoys themselves.”
Sarah, who has run a family business with husband Stephen for 25 years and lives near Wymondham, does not have a direct connection with EACH.
However, she feels passionately about charities that support young people and their families as she had a nephew who died when he was just 21.
“I knew I wanted to help others who needed similar support,” said the mum-of-two, who also has a granddaughter.
“It’s been great fun, and volunteering is something I’d recommend to anyone. It’s so rewarding and makes me feel I’ve done something worthwhile.
“I particularly enjoy working with Clare Oakley (EACH’s Groups and Events Coordinator at The Nook). She’s fantastic, hard-working and such a big part of these days. It’s a real pleasure to be able to support her however she needs me.”
Sarah helped at a recent half-term sibling day at The Nook, which included a visit from therapy dog Ellie and a session with the Rocksteady Music School.
There was a musical theme throughout, and, as an icebreaker, the children played a game where they had to describe an instrument for others to guess.
They also made their own instruments and took part in a quiz based on music from Disney films.
The Rocksteady Music School session took place at the end of the day and saw the children put on a performance for parents and family members.
