Volunteer Stories

Sylvia, Volunteer Receptionist:

What attracted you to volunteer Dove House?
I worked for a local company and we used to do fundraising for Dove House so over a number of years I had contacts here.

I retired early, just before I was 50 and I was diagnosed with cancer, although I was treated successfully I was still thinking about Dove House. I thought I'd love to go back and do something, go back to work, but not paid work. Work that meant something and I immediately thought of here and I've been here 14 years.

What do you get out of it?
I think meeting people particularly being on reception, welcoming people and chatting on the phone. People may ring to say something lovely or because they need help and it's an honour to be able to help. It's a pleasure. I love it. I absolutely love it.

What is it like to volunteer here?
Absolutely fabulous. You are part of this lovely family and it's fantastic.

What would you say about somebody thinking about volunteering at Dove House?
You will not regret it. 100% you wouldn't regret it.