The Macmillan Cancer Information Centre at Noble’s Hospital is looking to recruit additional volunteers.
Anna Featherstone, Macmillan Cancer Information and Support Service Manager, said: “Volunteers are the lifeblood of the Information Centre. Their support means that we’re able to offer advice and support to those with cancer as well as to their family and friends. This helps us to deliver Macmillan Cancer Support’s mission of ensuring that no one faces cancer alone.
“Being a volunteer is very rewarding, especially for vital services such as ours. It gives volunteers the chance to bring a smile to someone’s face and maybe even make their day. All it requires is some time, a willingness to listen and a desire to help.”
Lesley has been a volunteer with Macmillan for two years: “When I was made redundant in 2012 I decided that I wanted to take some time out to think about my future options. While I was thinking, I decided to do some voluntary work. I wanted to do something where I could use my existing communication skills and love of working with people. Volunteering for Macmillan allowed me to use my experience and skills in a structured and fulfilling way.
“I work in a small, friendly team and spend much of my time in the Macmillan Centre at Noble’s Hospital. My sessions are always varied and tasks range from simple office admin and setting up display material to meeting with people from all walks of life who have been affected by cancer. For me, the most important aspect of the role is the interaction with people who drop into the Centre for information and support. It initially sounds such a daunting thing to do, but what is needed most is the ability to listen and the desire to help.
“There was enormous support provided with a thorough training programme. Supervision and support is ongoing and has helped me to continue to develop my confidence and identify other training opportunities available to me, both in my personal and professional development.
“Volunteering brings many rewards; not necessarily visible but in terms of what you feel. You might think you haven’t the time or the skills, but a morning or an afternoon a week would be great and the fact that you are reading this probably means you’ve got what we’re looking for……come along and find out.”
Volunteering hours are flexible and can fit in alongside your other commitments. Ideally volunteers would commit to one shift a week, either 9.00 - 12.30 or 1.00 - 4.30 Monday to Friday.
Volunteering suits a wide variety of people: those who have retired or who are unemployed, those in work but with some spare time, as well as those considering a career in health or social care.
Anyone who in interested is encouraged to contact Anna to find out more on 650735 or email anna.featherstone@gov.im.
