In September we said a fond farewell to Karen, who has been volunteering on reception at the hospice every Friday morning for the past six months as part of the John Lewis Partnership Secondment programme.
Karen quickly became a valued member of the Lewis-Manning team, providing a warm welcome to patients, visitors and colleagues alike. Her support on reception has been invaluable, and we are incredibly grateful for the time, enthusiasm and professionalism she has brought to the role.
We were delighted to be joined by Helen Saunders, Waitrose Partner & Team Manager, and Peter Gale, Waitrose Branch Manager, Wimborne, to thank Karen for her contribution and celebrate the success of her placement.
Karen’s secondment is a fantastic example of the positive impact corporate volunteering can have, bringing additional skills, experience and support to our charity while helping individuals connect with their local community. Looking back on her six months with us, Karen shared what inspired her to take on the secondment, what she enjoyed most and what she would say to others considering volunteering with Lewis-Manning.
What made you want to be seconded to Lewis-Manning Hospice Care?
I wanted this secondment at Lewis-Manning because it is an amazing charity which supports people in our community during difficult times in their lives. It was a time for me to give back.
What have you enjoyed most about your time with us?
I have enjoyed meeting all the amazing people who make the hospice the outstanding organisation it is. The welcome I received and the induction set up for me were great. I was made to feel that the role I was doing was important to the Hospice. Everyone I met played a significant part in the daily running of the hospice.
Has anything surprised you about spending time in a hospice charity?
Yes that the Hospice only receives 12% towards the running of the organisation. The rest has to come from fundraising , Charity shops, House Clearance, local events, sponsorship, donations, etc.
What would you say to another Waitrose Partner considering a Golden Jubilee Trust secondment?
Go for it, step out of your comfort zone; it’s so rewarding. Don’t think like me, I will never get it. Work with your charity and get support from your managers. It could be you!
What would you say to someone thinking of joining Lewis-Manning as a reception volunteer?
You would be joining a fantastic group of people who donate their time to offer a warm & relaxing welcome to visitors at the Hospice, The work is varied, and no 2 days are the same. You are well supported & appreciated in the role.
Thank you, Karen, for everything you’ve done for Lewis-Manning. We will miss seeing you on Friday mornings and wish you all the very best for the future.
