Marie Curie relies on a kind army of volunteers. But what may surprise you is the number of different volunteer roles available. Whether you've got a few minutes or a few days a month, there are lots of ways you can give your time and support the charity. We spoke to some of the lovely people helping out to find out more.
Marie Curie Shop Volunteer
Kathleen has volunteered at Marie Curie’s Dungannon store for 4 years, and she never misses a shift.
Kathleen says, “What I love is that it’s incredibly friendly for staff and customers. You have a cuppa and laugh; it’s bright and airy, and we have designer labels at a fraction of the cost!”
When you volunteer in your local Marie Curie shop like Kathleen, not only will you be supporting the charity, you’ll also be supporting your local community. It’s fun too; expect to meet new people and be part of a friendly team. Whether you have retail experience you can share or you’re looking to gain some, this could be the role for you. The charity is always on the lookout for volunteers with skills and ideas around visual merchandising, identifying new channels, and raising awareness of the shops.
Marie Curie Companion Volunteer
Barbara’s husband Phil is living with Huntington's disease and has weekly visits at his Bradford home from Barry, a Marie Curie companion volunteer. Barry has volunteered with Marie Curie for over 5 years and visits two families.
Barbara says, “When Barry is here, I know Phil is happy and safe, and I can go out for a while. I can take our dog Ruby for a proper walk along the river, meet up with friends somewhere different, or even go for an ice cream. It’s good for my mental health and even my fitness levels. “
Barry says, “If the weather’s not great, Phil and I might play dominoes. But if the weather’s good, I’ll take him out in his wheelchair down to the local pub. My visits are about Phil being able to see a different face, maybe get out a bit, and also to give Barbara some respite.”
Marie Curie Companion volunteers visit people in their own homes, offering companionship and support for up to three hours each week. They make a real difference in the lives of people living with terminal illnesses and their families. The role involves helping with activities such as reading, making short trips to the shops, and providing information on local services. You might give support by telephone as well as face-to-face. Before becoming a companion, you’ll get extensive training to make sure you’re ready, and you’ll have on-going support throughout your time volunteering.
Marie Curie Hospice Gardener
Whether you are a keen gardener or not so green-fingered, you may like to become part of a team of volunteer gardeners at one of Marie Curie’s nine hospices. There’s always lots to do to keep the gardens looking beautiful. Your time planting, digging, and weeding will mean people receiving care, and their families, are able to enjoy beautiful plants and flowers, which can be very meaningful at a very difficult time.
Marie Curie Fundraisers
Robina, Chairperson of Lincoln’s Marie Curie fundraising group, says, “I love being in the group and raising money for Marie Curie. This March we were out in full force with the daffodils, and I enjoyed every minute.”
There are many ways fundraising volunteers use their spare time to help people get the care and support they need at the end of their lives. Some regularly volunteer in your local community. From taking on tasks like distributing collection boxes to local establishments, supporting local groups, providing admin help, and distributing leaflets and publications. Joining your local fundraising group can be a really great way to raise funds, as well as meeting new people and having lots of fun!
Find a role that sparks your interest here mariecurie.org.uk/get-involved/volunteering