Volunteers' Week is an annual celebration of the contribution millions of people make across the UK through volunteering.
Pam Green is one of the reception volunteers at our Barrow Centre, who helps greet our clients when they arrive for appointments, making them feel welcome and relaxed to help maximise the benefit they get from their therapy session.
We caught up with Pam to find out a bit more about what she does and what inspires her to do it.
Name Pamela Green
Role Front Desk Volunteer at the Barrow Centre
Length of time in role? 10 months
How did get your role? What experience did you need/ how did you find out about it? Do you do any other role which support your current role?
I first got involved in charity fundraising following my cancer treatment in 2014 and began planning and taking part in events supported by friends and family. My aim was to help anyone going through a cancer diagnosis and treatment, and their loved ones, to have access to the same kind of support as I did. I started volunteering at the local hospital and then I saw an opportunity to get involved with CancerCare. I had received complementary therapy here during my treatment which really benefitted my recovery and I think my experience can be valuable when talking to current clients.
What does your role involve?
My role involves making sure the client’s journey, from the minute they come in through the door until they leave, is as calm, positive relaxed and beneficial for them as possible. I enjoy making them drinks especially the children who always enjoy a hot chocolate with marshmallows. Some clients prefer to be quiet whereas others like to chat so it’s important to tune into that. I also get involved with admin tasks and preparations for fundraising events.
What are best bits of your role?
Seeing the clients walk out after receiving their therapy more relaxed than when they came in is great. I also enjoy meeting new clients who may have struggled to make that first step to ask for help, but, with some reassurance, become very happy that they did. Being a former client, I know how important it is to offer a “person centred” service that provides some much needed “me time” just for you.
What are the challenges of your role?
I haven’t experienced many challenges. I have a lung condition so sometimes struggle with the stairs but we have a lift which is very beneficial!
Top tips for people who want to become a volunteer
Just give it a try! You’ll meet loads of people including staff, therapists, other volunteers and, of course the clients. The best part is, at the end of each day, feeling that you have made a positive difference to someone.