Volunteers urge people to support Rainbows

Following on from Volunteers’ Week, an annual campaign running from June 1 to June 7, we are hoping to recruit volunteers for our shops, in the community and at the hospice, especially in the telephone team.

Chloe Bakewell (20) and Cara Allen (19) have been volunteering at Rainbows as part of a Job Centre scheme.

Chloe, of Barrow Upon Soar, said: “Volunteering at Rainbows is very different to what I expected as when you think of Rainbows, you think it is a sad place but it is a happy place and everyone is so nice. It is great to be able to try a variety of jobs and gain valuable experience ready for me to use in life.

“Volunteering is very fulfilling and I would definitely urge people to help out if they have any spare time. Even when I get a job, I still plan on volunteering at Rainbows.”

Cara, of Castle Donington, added: “I am really enjoying being part of the telephone team at Rainbows and I am learning lots of good skills and gaining valuable experience, particularly in admin. It is also great experience for my CV and it feels very rewarding knowing that I am doing something that is helping such a worthwhile cause.”

Volunteers play a vital part in our work as the only hospice in the East Midlands for life-limited children, young people and their families – and their dedication makes a huge contribution in the day to day running of the hospice.

Paul Holden, Volunteer Coordinator at Rainbows, said: “We currently have 342 of volunteers who, like Chloe and Cara, are all essential to Rainbows.

“Volunteering is simple and you only have to give the time you can afford – whether it’s a regular day a week or a few hours a year – and you can get involved in any way you want, from putting on your own fundraising event to working at the hospice or in one of our shops.

“We’re always looking for new volunteers, so if you have spare time, need a new challenge or simply wish to support Rainbows in a different way, please do get in touch. You can be a real part of something that brings support, love and laughter to children whose lives are sadly too short.”

For information on becoming a volunteer at Rainbows, please contact Paul Holden, Volunteer Coordinator, or 01509 638 059 or email [email protected].