As part of Volunteers Week, we are saying a big thank you to all of our wonderful volunteers. Your support helps us provide compassionate care to people living with life-limiting illnesses and we are incredibly grateful for everything you do.
Whether you’re volunteering in our hospices, retail, in the community or at our fundraising events and support groups, your time and commitment makes a real difference.
One of the many ways volunteers support Myton is by offering hairdressing services. While it may seem like a small gesture, for our patients it can have a significant impact.
Zoe, who works as a bank receptionist at Coventry Myton Hospice, occasionally volunteers her time and skills as a hairdresser for patients.
She explained:
I like doing it for the patients – it’s about making them feel better during difficult times. When people are unwell, something as simple as a haircut can help bring back a sense of normality, which is so important. Hair is part of a person’s identity, so when they can no longer look after it, it can feel like something is missing.
Even those who are well enough to manage day-to-day life often don’t consider their hair a priority anymore, so it’s rewarding to offer something that can have such a positive impact.
It’s also valuable for carers to receive this support. They’re often dealing with a lot emotionally, so giving them a bit of time for themselves is important. And of course, I enjoy having a chat with everyone – it’s always nice to connect.
Sue Medlock, our Ward Manager at Coventry Myton Hospice, shared just how much this service means to patients:
It’s so wonderful that Zoe and our other fabulous volunteers are able to offer this hairdressing service to our patients. They really look forward to having their hair done – and they all look amazing afterwards.
It makes such a difference to each patient and brings them so much joy. I’d like to thank everyone involved for offering this and helping our patients feel incredible. They really are stars!
In addition to hairdressing, we also rely on our Complementary Therapy volunteers, alongside our Therapy Team, who offer treatments such as massage, aromatherapy and reflexology to our patients. These therapies are designed to help improve comfort, reduce stress, and promote relaxation during a challenging time.
Our volunteers in this area provide invaluable support, creating a sense of calm and wellbeing for patients and their families, often at a time when they need it most. Complementary Therapy volunteers help patients maintain their quality of life and enjoy a moment of peace amid their illness, offering comfort in a holistic and compassionate way.
If you’re a qualified hairdresser, barber or complementary therapist, we’d love for you to join our team of volunteers at Myton. Your skills can make a real difference to the lives of our patients, helping them feel more like themselves and restoring a sense of normality during a difficult time.
Volunteering with Myton is a rewarding and meaningful way to use your expertise in a supportive and compassionate environment.
If you are interested in becoming a complementary therapist volunteer across our three hospices in Coventry, Rugby and Warwick, find out more below.
Or explore other ways to join our amazing volunteer community online below.
Join our volunteer community HERE!