Meet Margaret, who joined our Volunteer team in May 2024. Since then, she has become a regular Volunteer in our Day Hospice in Poole, offering companionship and support to patients, as well as lending her energy and enthusiasm to our fundraising and events team. Margaret brings warmth, wisdom, and a wealth of experience to her role — and we’re so grateful for everything she does.
Q1) My reason for volunteering is…
I am retired and, although I still lead a busy life, I like to stay active and connected to modern organisations — while giving something back to the community. Sometimes I find myself drawing on, and updating, the experience from my former professional life.
Q2) What do you most like about volunteering for Lewis-Manning Hospice Care?
It’s very similar to my previous working life, and I enjoy continuing to help people. I find it especially rewarding to talk to patients who have had — and still have — fascinating lives. I hope I can help lighten their thoughts as they face current challenges. Also, the staff at Lewis-Manning are always appreciative and make volunteers feel truly valued. I feel part of a wider team that works together to support and promote the charity in every area.
Q3) What advice would you give to someone thinking about volunteering?
If you’re considering it, I’d say it’s a very worthwhile and rewarding experience. You can choose from a wide range of roles to suit your interests, and any time you can give — even just an hour here and there — is genuinely appreciated.
Q4) Is there a particular event or task you’ve really enjoyed helping with and why?
I currently support Lewis-Manning in two ways. I volunteer weekly at the Day Hospice in Poole, where I help support patients alongside the trained clinical staff. We play board games, have chats, and patients are invited to take part in various therapies or creative activities, like art sessions. Patients always have choice, and it’s lovely to be part of that environment.
I also help the fundraising and events team. One recent highlight was the Fashion Show in Highcliffe, which was so much fun! I helped one of the models get ready — the models were volunteers and staff from local charity shops. All the clothes were available from our Lewis-Manning shops in Highcliffe and Christchurch. The show featured both men’s and women’s wear, from casual outfits to more formal styles, with a lively commentary as the models paraded through the venue. It was a fantastic event and a great way to support the charity.
Q5) If you could have dinner with any famous person, dead or alive, who would it be and why?
I’d choose Brian May. He seems quite quiet in interviews, but I suspect he has some incredible stories from his time in the music world. Beyond that, his academic background is fascinating — he studied mathematics and physics and holds a PhD in astrophysics. He’s also been involved in various groups related to space science and is a passionate advocate for animal welfare. A truly multifaceted person!
Q6) Are you a morning person or a night owl?
Definitely more of a lark than an owl! I enjoy getting up early and making the most of the daylight. In the winter, I don’t enjoy the short days, and I usually head to bed by around 10pm — unless I’m out, of course!
Thank you, Margaret, for your wonderful support and your commitment to both our patients and our fundraising work.