Hospice honours volunteers and staff for 570 years of long service

Over fifty volunteers and staff have received long service awards from local charity Treetops Hospice – totalling an incredible 570 years of service. 

Over half the volunteers receiving awards are based in the hospice’s nineteen charity shops located across Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire. Income from the shops help provide nursing care and emotional support for local patients with life-limiting conditions, those who’ve been bereaved and their families. 

Linda Brown received her five year award for volunteering at a Treetops charity shop in a suburb of Derby.  Linda sorts donations that have been brought in and helps on the till.

She said: “I love volunteering and I know we are very much appreciated. We’re never labelled ‘just a volunteer’ and that really counts for everything. 

“It’s so nice to be a part of the shop and we all get on so well. At the end of the day, you want to know how much has been raised for the hospice and you really feel like you’re contributing to the charity. I’d say to anyone considering volunteering – just do it!”

Sara McLuckie, Head of Retail Services at Treetops, thanked all the shop volunteers for their commitment to the charity.  She said: “We are very grateful to all our charity shop volunteers and staff for their hard work and dedication over the years. 

“Our shop volunteers play such a vital role. With their contribution and continued support, we can continue to provide nurses to care for patients at the very end of life, in their own home.

“On behalf of Treetops Hospice, we want to say a huge thank you and congratulations to everyone. We really couldn’t do it without you.” 

Treetops welcomes more volunteers to get involved in their local charity shop as Anna Bown, Volunteer Services Co-ordinator, explained: “Volunteers are integral to each shop, helping with a wide range of roles from receiving and sorting donations, to serving customers. 

“We’d love to hear from enthusiastic people with spare time on their hands to help with the key tasks that ensure each shop runs smoothly.

"You don’t need previous retail experience, and this is a perfect role for someone looking to enhance their CV, develop new skills, meet new people and have fun.”

Those interested in volunteering should contact Treetops Volunteer Services at volunteering @ treetopshospice.org.uk or call 0115 949 1264. More information can be found on the charity’s website: www.treetopshospice.org.uk/volunteering 

The Treetops Long Service Awards were held at the hospice in Risley with volunteers, staff and guests invited to enjoy light refreshments. The annual event is for staff and volunteers who have reached 5 and 10-year milestones.