We need volunteers

We are calling on people in the region to help life-limited children and young people by donating time.

As part of Volunteers’ Week, a national annual campaign which runs until June 12, we hope to recruit volunteers for our shops, in the community and at the hospice. Claire Homer (41), of Barrow, has been volunteering on reception at the hospice for three years.

She said: “I have always known about the work of Rainbows and it is always something I have been passionate about, so volunteering is a chance for me to do something positive for the charity. I love what I do at the hospice and I would encourage everyone to think about volunteering for Rainbows if they are able to. It is a great place and you are made to feel extremely welcome and part of the team.”

Volunteers play a vital part in the work we do and their dedication makes a huge contribution in the day to day running of the hospice. Jill Smith (53), of Chilwell, has been volunteering at the Rainbows Beeston shop, in High Road for over a year. She is now a supervisor.

Jill added: “When you volunteer, you can give as little or as much time as you want and that is what I like about it. Volunteering for Rainbows, you feel like you are giving something back and it is very rewarding knowing you are helping such a great cause. I would encourage anyone who is thinking of volunteering for Rainbows to give it a whirl.”

Paul Holden, Volunteer Coordinator at Rainbows, said: “We currently have 347 volunteers who tell us that helping Rainbows is not only incredibly rewarding but also a lot of fun. It is a great way of meeting new people and building new skills and confidence.

“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. Every week, 786 essential hours are volunteered to Rainbows, without which we wouldn’t be able to function.

“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 on 01509 638059 or email [email protected]