Volunteers are at the heart of Butterwick Hospice. They are the driving force behind everything we do and make it possible for us to continue delivering vital care to our community.
We are proud to have over 150 volunteers supporting the hospice across a wide range of roles—from retail operatives and fundraising assistants to gardeners and clinical administrators. Their dedication, generosity, and willingness to give their time are invaluable to our work.
Today, we are shining a light on two very special volunteers who, between them, have dedicated over 35 years of service to the hospice – Maureen and Linda. You may recognise Maureen and Linda from our Golf Days, Annual Balls, or social media posts featuring blind cards and community raffles. They currently support our Fundraising team with a variety of activities, and we recently caught up with them to learn more about their volunteering journey.
We asked Linda about her relationship with Butterwick Hospice and where it all began. “I started volunteering 15 years ago… I began volunteering in the Thornaby shop, where I really enjoyed helping customers and even made some new friends. I later moved into the fundraising department, preparing raffle and blind card prizes—something I found really enjoyable. I also help at events, working on stalls and tombolas – anything except banking! It’s a great opportunity to meet people and talk about the charity.”
Linda then explained why she volunteers at Butterwick Hospice, “Butterwick supported me greatly when my husband, Maurice, was receiving end-of-life care. After he passed away, a friend suggested volunteering here. I’m so glad I did – I truly feel I’ve gained more than I’ve given.” Linda’s favourite highlight from her time as a Butterwick volunteer is our Annual Ball. “The people who attend are so generous and full of energy—it’s wonderful to be part of it. The staff are fantastic and have made me feel like part of the team, and I now consider them my friends.”
Maureen has also kindly shared how her Butterwick Hospice story began. “I have been volunteering for 20 years, having started in February 2006… I volunteered in the A.I.P.U. for 13 years (until COVID), working as an evening receptionist and helping with admin tasks. It was a pleasure to meet and talk to the inpatients and their friends and families and I looked forward to going into the hospice each week. It was there that I met the wonderful and inspirational Mary Butterwick. I also supported events when needed and assisted the fundraising team with preparing blind cards and raffle prizes. Since COVID, I’ve continued volunteering within fundraising, helping with a variety of tasks including counting and accounting of monies, plus fundraising events.”
Continuing, Maureen explains why she volunteers at Butterwick Hospice, “I decided to volunteer after visiting relatives in the hospice. I saw first-hand the incredible work the staff do and how important the hospice is to the community. I wanted to give a few hours each week to help in any way I could.” Maureen’s favourite highlight from her time at Butterwick Hospice is the connections she’s made from her 20 years of volunteering. “The staff have always made me feel welcome and comfortable, and I’ve met so many lovely people. I especially enjoy helping at events and seeing everyone having a good time—particularly at the Annual Ball. I was also delighted when the IPU reopened after its closure, as the hospice is such an important part of the community. I’ve enjoyed every role I’ve had and hope to continue for as long as I can.”
We cannot thank Maureen, Linda, and all of our incredible volunteers enough for their hard work and dedication. Their impact is felt across every part of Butterwick Hospice, and we are truly grateful for everything they do.
