Meet our volunteers

Volunteers at The Rowans Hospice come from all walks of life and contribute to the charity in a number of valuable ways. Meet some of our volunteers and find out what they say about their experiences.

Val White - Clerical volunteer

“In May 2008 I applied to volunteer at The Rowans Hospice as part of my recovery process from ME/CFS. I was diagnosed in 2007 and after some time needed to find something that I could do and remain in charge of. I volunteer every morning when I can, to sort all the post and help in different departments. I’ve found the hospice a wonderful place to volunteer in and it has certainly enhanced my recovery process.”

Lyn Comerford - Floral volunteer

“I recently retired and moved to the Portsmouth area not knowing many people and not knowing how to fill my time. Everyone I met knew about The Rowans Hospice. I thought becoming a volunteer would be a great way to use some of my time effectively, meet new people and, in a very small way, make a difference in the community. I was right - volunteer work is fun and the people I work with are lovely. Best of all, it's a privilege to serve people who are less fortunate than myself.”

Chris Scott - Reception volunteer

 “My wife and I were looking to help The Rowans Hospice in a way that would keep us together (working, I mean!). The chance of the Coffee Shop came along so we help out mainly at weekends. It’s great to be part of a large team of staff and volunteers and we have a lot of happy memories (but also some sad ones) from our time at the hospice.” 

Rachel Alderman - IT volunteer

“I work in the IT industry and volunteer a few hours a week to help maintain the volunteer database. This enables others to organise the hundreds of volunteers who help the hospice. I get to utilise skills I haven't had the chance to exercise since university and gain a whole new group of friends into the bargain! Volunteering has given me the opportunity to contribute to an important local cause in the knowledge that my small contribution is valued and helps support those who need the care the hospice delivers.”

Gina Etherington - Clerical and Reception volunteer

“I retired three years ago having worked full time for forty years. I felt I needed to continue using my brain and skills by offering my time to a worthwhile cause. This brought me to The Rowans Hospice. I initially undertook reception duties then migrated to clerical work. It helps keep the little grey cells active.”

Anne Powell - Coffee Shop volunteer

“I love volunteering here, I feel an integral part of the happy team and it’s a brilliant place to meet a wide variety of people. I also enjoy doing some duty driving when needed. Over the years I have gained much from my time here, not just new skills but also some experiences that have given me great satisfaction.”