Forget Me Not Children’s Hospice thanks volunteers during Volunteers Week

Date published: 03 June 2019

Over 500 volunteers donated an incredible 60,000 hours of their time in 2018 to Forget Me Not Children’s Hospice which runs Grace’s Place in Bury and Russell House in Huddersfield.

Luen Thompson, Chief Executive at Forget Me Not said: “It’s no exaggeration to say that we would simply not be able to function without our wonderful volunteers.

“Every minute, every hour they donate means we can care for hundreds of local children with life-shortening conditions and their families.

“Not only that, but their dedication, commitment, energy, good will, skills and experience enhance everything we do, from fundraising to care, in our shops and at our hospices.

“There isn’t a part of Forget Me Not where volunteers aren’t absolutely vital.

“We are extremely grateful that people from across the local community are willing to give us the gift of their time, and we’re proud too that we can offer such a huge variety of volunteering opportunities that mean so many people can get involved whatever their circumstances, work background and time commitments.”

People like retiree Jane, who volunteers in one of Forget Me Not’s shops, because “I just love meeting new people. Plus, it keeps your brain active and doing something worthwhile!”

Or James, who likes being a shop volunteer because “it gives me something to focus on” after he experienced some mental health issues.

Or Fareed who is improving his language skills by volunteering in another of the charity’s shops.

For Louise, volunteering as a musician at the hospice gives her the chance to use her talent and skills to benefit some of the children Forget Me Not supports while also enhancing her CV.

And for Kim, the confidence and experience she built up as a care volunteer led to a permanent role as a care team member for the charity. 

While they may have different reasons for volunteering, what they share is a heartfelt appreciation of the work the charity does.

As Sheila, one of Forget Me Not’s fundraising volunteers, said: “I get great satisfaction from knowing that what we do really does help the families Forget Me Not supports.”

If you’re interested in volunteering a few spare hours to support the work this worthwhile charity does across North Manchester, Forget Me Not would love to hear from you. For all the latest opportunities contact us:

• Email volunteers@forgetmenotchild.co.uk
• Call 0161 724 5269
• Visit www.forgetmenotchild.co.uk/volunteer