This Volunteers’ Week, we’ve been shining a light on some of the amazing people who give their time to support The Myton Hospices. Today, we’re celebrating a member of staff who began their journey as a volunteer, showcasing the opportunities volunteering can offer.

Debbie Osumili started volunteering at Myton because she wanted to get involved in charity work. She explained:

I chose Myton because of what they do and what they represent. My dad had end of life care, though not with Myton, and seeing the compassion, care and sacrifice the healthcare providers showed him and my family made me realise that palliative and end of life care was the sector for me.

Debbie began her journey at our Trinity Street shop:

I loved volunteering at the shop, doing a few hours once a week. My duties involved a bit of everything – working the till, keeping the shop neat and tidy, sorting clothes and bric-a-brac. It was important to make customers feel welcome from the moment they stepped in. Even a simple smile and hello can make a big difference.

After five months, Debbie took on more responsibility as a lead volunteer, and later successfully applied for the role of Assistant Manager, joining our team as a member of staff, working across six shops in Coventry and Warwickshire:

Interesting is the best word to describe being Assistant Manager – no two days are the same. It’s exciting and challenging. I learn something every day, meet new people, and get to extend Myton’s care in a different way. I love seeing how excited people get when they find a bargain and it’s incredibly rewarding to know you’re helping brighten someone’s day.

Debbie’s volunteering journey has become a real family affair, with her children also giving their time at our Walsgrave Road and Trinity Street shops.

Our Head of Retail, Ralph Beevers, shared how Debbie’s journey has been a shining example of the value and potential of volunteering at Myton:

Debbie has been a brilliant addition to the Myton team since she began volunteering last year. Initially supporting both of our Coventry City Centre shops, she was eager to get involved in all aspects of shop work, and quickly learnt everything needed to become a lead volunteer. In that role, she regularly stepped in to help manage one of the shops and did a fantastic job. I’m absolutely delighted that she’s now secured a role as Assistant Manager in Myton Retail – it’s thoroughly well-deserved!

Debbie is a strong advocate for volunteering:

Volunteering is so important if you want to build people skills, like communication, customer service, and even sales and marketing. At Myton, you also develop compassion, empathy and meaningful relationships. I always encourage people to volunteer – it’s a great way to give back, gain experience, and get personal satisfaction from helping others.

Our shops fund the care of 1 in 4 patients, and this year we need to raise £12.7 million of the £15.3 million it costs to continue providing our services free of charge. By volunteering in one of our shops, you’re not just giving your time – you’re helping us make a real difference to patients and their families. We have more than 25 shops across Coventry and Warwickshire so chances are there is one near to you!

Join our amazing team of volunteers today and be part of something truly life changing. Whether you can spare a few hours a week or more, your support helps us care for people when they need us most, now and in the future.

Find out more our charity shop and eCommerce roles HERE!

If you are also interested in volunteering with your family, please complete this expression of interest form!

Fill out the interest form HERE!

Thank you to each and every one of our incredible volunteers for your time, dedication and support. You are helping to ensure we can be there for more people and their loved ones living with life-limiting illnesses across Coventry and Warwickshire. Thank you!