We asked Wendy, who has been volunteering with us since The Coffee Shop opened two years ago, to tell us more about the role:
Why did you become a volunteer at the Coventry Myton Hospice coffee shop?
I wanted to volunteer with Myton anyway and the coffee shop was about to open. I’ve worked in coffee shops before and I like working with people so the role combined everything. I also volunteer on the Inpatient Unit.
What do you enjoy most about volunteering in the coffee shop?
The most rewarding thing is talking to patients and relatives. Quite a few of them open up to you; it’s nice that they feel comfortable enough to open up to you and off load. It’s a really nice feeling and rewarding in the sense that it makes you feel you’re doing something worthwhile.
What do you feel you get from volunteering?
When I first came to Myton I thought it was going to be a really sad place – I thought hospices were just about dying. But I now know that’s not true. It’s so positive here. It can be sad, people tell me how they’re feeling and what is going on in their lives but for someone to confide in you is a privilege. I’d like to think that I provide a friendly face, and am an ear for people.
What would you say to someone who is considering becoming a volunteer?
If you want to be a part of Myton, then it is an absolute privilege. You get to see how the whole organisation works and you feel valued as a part of that. We’re here to provide a service as far as serving drinks, and if you feel you can talk to people then there is that too. It’s such a pleasant and welcoming place; you would never think that there is sadness and grieving because of the atmosphere here. If I had one regret it would be that I didn’t volunteer sooner!
Thinking about volunteering?
You can find out more about being a volunteer at our coffee shop here.