It takes a huge team of people to power a children’s hospice. From expert clinicians like doctors, nurses and healthcare assistants, to dedicated roles like receptionists, domestics, chefs and gardeners. And supporting each and every one of them are some very special people: volunteers. In her Children’s Hospice Week blog, Noah’s Ark Children’s Hospice volunteer Ashleigh tells us what it’s like, why she does it, and why you should consider it too.
I’ve been a Home Support Volunteer at Noah’s Ark Children’s Hospice for two years, and honestly, I can’t help but smile when I talk about the families that I’ve been matched with. The matching process at Noah’s Ark is incredible. So is the training.
The hospice really support you, making sure you have really thorough training which covers safeguarding, communicating with families, and general practical elements of working with families. You also get regular supervision sessions, because you need to be able to handle any situation.
Volunteering is an integral part of who I am
When I’m not actively volunteering at Noah’s Ark, it genuinely feels like there’s a part of me missing. Before I came to Noah’s Ark, I volunteered at another children’s hospice for 13 years. When I started out, I was single, lived at home and had much more time on my hands, so it was a lot easier to volunteer. But all these years later, married with two dogs and a busy job as a business owner, it still has such a grip on me. Nothing beats the feelings it brings you.
It's a lot, but volunteering doesn't feel like work to me. This is what I want to spend my time doing, it’s definitely a choice.
You really do get back what you give
Home Support Volunteers at Noah’s Ark are matched with a family for a maximum of 18 months and you can give as little or as much as you can. I remember my mum asking me if getting to know and supporting seriously ill children ever makes me sad. But it’s not my thing to be sad about. I’m here to fulfil a job while being a small part of the lives of these wonderful families every week.
I’m deeply grateful that they welcome me into their homes to spend time with their child. It's a real privilege and one I treasure.
Volunteering is so important for hospices like Noah’s Ark
Created in 2008, the Noah’s Ark Home Support Volunteer programme trains people like me to offer both practical and social support, helping with everyday tasks like household chores and gardening, supporting siblings with homework, or simply spending time playing games and providing company.
They’re always on the lookout for more Home Support Volunteers, and I couldn’t recommend becoming one enough.
It is so rewarding and it also helps you develop your knowledge and skills. Whether you volunteer for a few hours each week or every other week, you really get to make a direct difference to the children and families supported by Noah's Ark.