My volunteer experience has been one of the best things I’ve ever given a try… Embrace and enjoy the role. The rewards are brilliant.
Volunteers
Alan’s Story
“Embrace and Enjoy the Role” – Alan’s Volunteering Story
This week, we caught up with Alan, one of our dedicated Outpatient Volunteer Drivers, as he helped two of our patients attend their outpatient sessions. Alan has been volunteering with us for the past four years, and his story is a lovely example of how small acts of kindness can make a real difference to people’s lives.
A chance conversation that changed everything
Alan’s journey into volunteering began unexpectedly. Having recently retired from his role as a National Account Contracts Manager, volunteering was not something he had previously considered. But during the COVID period, like many people, he began to connect more with his local community, including his neighbours.
It was through one of those connections that things changed. Juliet, one of our Community Clinical Nurse Specialists and Alan’s neighbour, got to know him and suggested he consider volunteering.
“It came out of the blue,” Alan recalls. “I spoke to my wife, and she said, ‘Go for it.’ So I did.”
First impressions that last
Alan’s first day began with volunteer training led by Shona, which he describes as “informative and interesting”, giving him a strong foundation for the role ahead.
He still remembers his very first patient pick-up: a lady attending a Zumba session. “She was very open about her situation and really chatty,” he says. “That’s something I’ve found ever since, people are often very open, and they ask about me too.”
A day in the life of a volunteer driver
Each week, Alan brings his diary into the Hospice to plan ahead so the team can let patients know in advance that they can attend their sessions.
A typical journey involves:
• Collecting the patient from their home
• Offering support to help them safely into the car
• Driving them to the Hospice and ensuring they are dropped comfortably near the entrance
• Spending time while they attend their session, getting a drink in the Hospice Bistro, often reading, walking, or relaxing in the conservatory
• Returning to collect them, helping arrange their next appointment, and ensuring they get safely back home
It is a role that combines practical support with genuine human connection.
Finding joy in every moment
When asked about his favourite part of volunteering, Alan does not hesitate:
“All of it, meeting people and the staff are all fantastic and really helpful.”
The power of listening
One of the most meaningful aspects of Alan’s role is the conversations he shares along the way.
“People often share their heartfelt stories about their lives,” he explains. “It’s a privilege to listen.”
Through these moments, Alan has found a deeper sense of purpose: “It’s about being able to give something back to society.”
Making a real difference
For the patients he supports, that difference is clear.
Kath, one of the patients Alan has driven, shared what the service means to her:
“I had become housebound because I didn’t feel confident going out in a taxis with strangers. But when the Outpatients team introduced me to Alan and John, it made a huge difference.”
She describes the kindness and patience she experiences each time:
“They don’t rush me. They help me get in and out of the car, fix my cushion, and buckle me in, it’s the little things that matter so much. It’s the only time I get out. I love coming to Zumba, the group is so friendly, and the music is so uplifting. Honestly, I can’t thank them and the team enough.”
Challenges and perspective
While the role is incredibly rewarding, Alan speaks openly about the more difficult moments. It can be hard to see patients’ health change over time, and to witness how tired people can become.
“It opens your eyes,” he says, reflecting on the support that hospices provide. Yet it is this insight that also strengthens his commitment to the role.
Alan
Outpatient Volunteer Driver
A sense of pride and belonging
Although volunteer drivers often in on different days, Alan regularly sees colleagues like Tracy and Ria. Over time, he has built meaningful connections, not only with fellow volunteers but with patients too.
“I’m really pleased when patients ask for me by name,” he says with a smile.
He also speaks of the pride he feels: “I’m proud to wear the badge.”
Looking ahead: a message to others
For anyone considering volunteering, Alan’s advice is simple:
“Do it – give it a try. If it doesn’t work, that’s fine. And if it does, keep going.”
When asked to sum up his experience in a single sentence, Alan’s answer captures it perfectly:
“My volunteer experience has been one of the best things I’ve ever given a try, you need to be a good listener, be positive, and have a strong frame of mind. Embrace and enjoy the role. The rewards are brilliant.”
Alan’s story shows that volunteering is not only about giving time, but about building connections, offering comfort, and being part of something that really matters.