Severn Hospice volunteers mark milestones

Volunteers celebrated more than 150 years of commitment when two special Long Service Award parties were held in their honour.

Severn Hospice has more than 1,400 hardworking volunteers who help the charity with everything from keeping the award-winning gardens in shape to giving visitors a warm welcome in reception.

An army of them have been recognised for their hard work and dedication – with day services volunteer Graham Riley notching up 20 years of service.

The hospice’s trustees gathered to acknowledge their work at the tea parties, held at the Telford hospice.

Without the volunteers’ support, Severn Hospice would not be able to care for people living with terminal illnesses and their families across Shropshire, Telford & Wrekin and Mid Wales.

Frances Gardiner, volunteer co-ordinator at Severn Hospice, said: “The volunteers are so vital to us – if we didn’t have them we would have to raise another £2 million to cover the salary bill.

“We have Long Service Awards for volunteers who have been with us for five, 10, 15, 20 and 25 years. It really is quite incredible how they manage to reach such milestones. “

Overall there were 12 volunteers celebrating 10 years and another four marking five. The combined total with Graham’s milestone of 20 years was 160 years.

Frances added: “Volunteering with Severn Hospice can be very rewarding and is a good way to meet new people whilst giving something back.

“You can volunteer at one of the hospice sites, in a charity shop, at a charity event or local businesses can come and help us as corporate volunteers.”

If you would like to find out more information about volunteering at Severn Hospice go to severnhospice.org.uk/join-us/volunteer