“Volunteering reminds me of what is truly important in life: people and connection.”

This Volunteers’ Week (2 to 8 June), we’re celebrating the incredible individuals who give up their time to support Weston Park Cancer Charity’s work.

First up is Vic, who has been volunteering as part of the Charity Hub’s meet and greet team since July 2024. Since then, Vic has been the first point of contact for many individuals seeking support. She’s known for her kindness, compassion, and unparalleled tea making skills!

Here, Vic explains what motivated her to get involved and why she’s so passionate about volunteering.

Why did you become a volunteer?

I decided to become a volunteer after supporting my mum and dad through their cancer journeys. It was a difficult time, but it made me realise that I was comfortable holding space for challenging conversations and news. I was able to support my parents how, where, and when they required it.

Their experiences showed me how much the little things mattered: the friendly faces at the Cancer Centre; the cup of tea and kindly chatter during chemo; and the ability to meet and talk with others going through similar experiences.

What made you want to volunteer for Weston Park Cancer Charity in particular?

Following redundancy, I had some free time and decided it was an ideal opportunity to look into volunteering. I applied to Weston Park Cancer Charity due to my parents’ experiences but stayed on as a volunteer because of how friendly and welcoming everyone is.

The charity is very flexible in their approach to volunteers; many places want you to commit to set hours or a minimum time period, but Weston Park understand that life isn’t always straightforward. They welcome whatever time you can offer, which makes you feel truly valued as a volunteer.

What do you enjoy about your role specifically?

I find the role rewarding as there is always something different and interesting to uncover. I really enjoy meeting new people and working alongside the wonderful staff in the Hub.

Walking into the Hub is like receiving a warm hug - it’s so nice to be part of such a fantastic and genuine environment. The vibe is relaxed and usually happy despite the nature of people’s visits to the hospital. It’s amazing how much making a cup of tea for a patient and bringing them a biscuit seems to lighten their day.

What do you get out of volunteering?

I like being helpful! Whether I’m talking to a patient or carer about their day, doing electronic filing, or laminating posters for events - it’s lovely to be able to give back. The Weston Park Cancer Charity team are always quick to offer their thanks. It means a lot knowing that what I do has value for the charity. It reminds me of what is truly important in life: people and connection.

Would you recommend volunteering to others?

Absolutely. Volunteering can help you to gain new skills and enables you to try things that are outside of your comfort zone. It can increase your confidence and open your mind to new possibilities. Importantly, it’s a reminder that we can find purpose outside of what we earn and what our job title is.

Volunteering is all about community. For me, it’s a way of taking a step towards the sort of world I want to be part of. A world where each of us looks out for others, treats people with respect, and recognises that individuals have their own needs and stories. A world where our kindness and empathy are greater than our differences.

If you would like to become a Weston Park Cancer Charity volunteer, head to: westonpark.org.uk/volunteering or email the team at volunteering@wpcancercharity.org.uk.