Hospice volunteers thanked for 10 years' service (From Watford Observer)
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Hospice of St Francis thanks its longest serving volunteers
2:00pm Thursday 21st February 2013 in News
By Rebecca Perring, Reporter
Hospice director Ros Taylor with volunteer Robin Mitchell.
A man from Abbots Langley has been recognised for his commitment and contribution to volunteering.
Robin Mitchell received the praise after ten years volunteering for the Hospice of St Francis, working in the Love to Give shop, in Abbots Langley.
Mr Mitchell, 76, was among 30 volunteers invited to a special ceremony to receive a gold commemorative badge and certificate by hospice director Ros Taylor.
Mr Mitchell, who has lived in Abbots Langley for 44 years, said his wife, Jenny, came along to support him.
He said: "It was a good day and I was the only man among lots of women volunteers, which was slightly embarrassing. I think there is a need for more male volunteers to come forward."
Mr Mitchell volunteers in the shop every fortnight and said he enjoys meeting new people.
He said: "I decided to volunteer for charity after my mum died of cancer. It was also after I retired and I was keen to keep busy.
"I enjoy working in the shop because it’s for a good cause. Because Jenny and I have lived in Abbots Langley for quite a long time we know many people who pop in every now and again."
At the ceremony Ms Taylor gave a speech thanking the volunteers for their commitment and contribution.
In it, she described volunteers as “at the heart of all we do at the hospice".
She said: "Our 1,000 volunteers come from all walks of life, locations and age groups and give freely of their time, expertise, energy and experience.
"We are truly grateful to these men and women here today, who have given at least ten years of dedicated service.
"Their long-term commitment to our charity, to help us ensure we can provide total care for those with life-limiting illnesses living in our local communities, is highly valued and they are an inspiration to their peers and others who may be thinking of volunteering for us."
Residents interested in becoming a volunteer for The Hospice of St Francis should contact Helena Hodges, voluntary services manager, on 01442 869550 or visit www.stfrancis.org.uk/ work-with-us/volunteer-opportunities.
