Celebrating 275 years of kindness
09 June 2026 | View all news
Volunteers who have dedicated a combined 275 years of service to our hospice were recognised at a special celebration evening on Monday, 8 June.
Held on the final day of Volunteers’ Week, the event brought together volunteers from across the charity. It was an opportunity to celebrate the difference they make to local patients and families and thank them for their ongoing support.
The hospice is supported by around 250 volunteers who give their time across retail, fundraising, administration, gardening, reception and patient-facing services.
Saying thank you to all
Long-service awards were presented to volunteers reaching milestones from five to 25 years. The evening also recognised the contribution made by every single volunteer across the charity.
From supporting customers in our shops and helping at fundraising events to assisting with administration, gardening and patient services, volunteers play a vital role in every area of our work.
Hear from our volunteers
“What I enjoy most about volunteering is meeting so many different people. You get to chat with people of all ages and backgrounds, and every shift is different.
“It’s a really friendly environment and I’ve made some great connections along the way.” – Fay
“I originally came to the hospice after finishing my job at GEC and volunteered in the admin team. The skills I learned helped me find new employment, but I never left the hospice.
“Twenty-five years later, I’m still volunteering on reception at weekends. It’s the people that have kept me here – the friendships, the sense of teamwork and knowing that together we’re helping people when they need it most. That’s a really satisfying feeling.” – Cyril
“Hospice care supported my dad when he was ill, so I know first-hand how much it means to patients and families.
“Volunteering feels like a way of giving something back and helping to ensure more people can access that same care and support.” – Tina
The Awards
Anne Allen – Collectables
Cyril Bird – Support Services
Rob Hawkins – Collectables
Karen Smithson – Eccleshall
Emma Westley – Weekend Reception, Hospice
Jackie Allen – Hednesford
Ruth Carroll – Activity Volunteer
Jonathan Clarke – Big Shop, Hanley
Gill Farnworth – Eccleshall
Janice Hackett – Hednesford
Patricia Malkin – Stafford #2
Annie Pask – Eccleshall
Michael Roberts – Collectables
Maryann Stringer – Donations
Ian Woodward – Support Services, Fundraising
Yvonne Woodward – Support Services, Fundraising
Jamie Coupland – Ebay
Sarah Hodgkinson – Newport
Lynda Kelly – Penkridge
Sandra Kelly – Stafford #2
Kate Murphy – Newport
Dianne Powell – Hednesford
Graham Reaney – Hednesford
Linda Salmon – Eccleshall
Val Westerman – Norton Bridge
Judy Whalley – Hospice Reception and Admin Support
“The commitment shown by our volunteers is truly remarkable. To have 275 years of service recognised in one room is an incredible achievement.
“On behalf of everyone at Katharine House Hospice, I’d like to thank every single volunteer for the difference they make to our charity and the people we support.” – Dave Fletcher, our Chief Executive.
