Volunteers Week 2025: Why We Volunteer

What is Volunteers’ Week?

Volunteers’ Week is an annual celebration that recognises the incredible contribution volunteers make across the UK. Organised by the NCVO, it highlights how volunteering strengthens communities, supports charities and transforms lives, both for those who give their time and those who receive it.

At The Butterfly Hospice Trust, our volunteers are the heart of everything we do. From running our shops and supporting events to lending a listening ear or keeping our gardens blooming, we couldn’t do what we do without them.

As part of this year’s celebrations, we’re sharing the real stories behind the roles, in our volunteers' own words.

Why We Volunteer – In Their Words

Tina Clark

After a decade volunteering as a Waterway Chaplain, Tina brings a deep sense of compassion and community spirit to her role at The Butterfly Hospice Trust. Now volunteering as a Celebrant and supporting our Walk & Talk support group, Tina has found a renewed purpose in helping others.

“Volunteering gives me a purpose after taking early retirement. The Walk & Talk support group gives me physical, emotional and spiritual benefits, just by being in nature with others. I’ve made firm friendships and while I can’t thank enough those who’ve supported me, I can pay it back by supporting others. Volunteering reminds me that I still have something to offer and lets me continue being me.”

Sarah Dean

Sarah began volunteering with us in 2020 after the passing of both her parents, including her mum, who was cared for at the hospice in 2018. Her journey from grief to growth has touched everyone around her.

“I started volunteering at the Butterfly Hospice Trust Warehouse sorting donations and now also help with collection rounds, fundraising events and more. At the time of starting my volunteering, I was at a really low point and lacking confidence. Volunteering has given me so much of that confidence back and a belief in myself I thought I’d lost forever. It’s been life-changing. I’ve learned new skills, made great friends, and felt part of something special. I’ll always be grateful to the team, especially Clair, for believing in me.”

Mary Darton

Mary’s volunteering story began in 2009, during her husband’s final days at Pilgrim Hospital. She remembers watching the turf being scraped away for what would become the Butterfly Hospice.

“After my husband passed, I was at a turning point - sink or swim. I spotted a call for volunteers at the Spalding shop and took a chance. I started out sorting donations, then served on the shop floor. It gave me purpose and something to get up for. Volunteering gave me the confidence to take on a job as a caregiver and later apply for the Assistant Manager role, which I loved. Even after retiring, I’ve stayed connected with the charity, now helping at the warehouse and managing the hospice’s eBay site. Last year alone, I helped raised around £10,000. I’ve met amazing people, supported events and watched the charity grow. I plan to keep going for as long as I can.”

A Final Thank You

These stories only scratch the surface of the incredible contributions volunteers make every day at The Butterfly Hospice Trust.

To every single person who gives their time, heart and skills to help us — THANK YOU. You make everything we do possible.

If you're inspired by these stories and want to find out more about joining our team of volunteers, visit our Volunteering Page for current roles and opportunities.