Barbara’s volunteering journey with Pilgrims Hospices
Meet Barbara, who began volunteering with Pilgrims Hospices four years ago after searching for something new to fill her time with.
Barbara is a Collection Pot Coordinator, and makes sure that all our collection pots in Whitstable are replaced every few months, as well as finding new venues to host one, including pubs, cafes, hairdressers and newsagents.
Maxine and Barbara
She also enjoys supporting our fundraising events, and you will often see her manning our tombola stalls in the community or marshalling at our challenge events.
Volunteering is a way for Barbara to give back to a cause close to her heart. After experiencing first-hand the care her husband, Edd, received, she knew that when the time was right, she wanted to give a little something back.
“I was so overwhelmed by the care, compassion and respect Edd received, as well as myself and my family during what was a very difficult time.”
Barbara’s family also volunteer their time when they can, including her grandson, Freddie, who walked the Whitstable Carnival to raise awareness of Pilgrims, and her daughter, Maxine, who spent some time raising funds on one of our summer tombolas.
Barbara said: “I would recommend volunteering as it has given me a purpose and I feel privileged to be a volunteer, knowing I am making a difference. The sense of fulfilment is indescribable.”
Canterbury Community Fundraiser, Rachael Edmed says:
“We are always looking for enthusiastic, passionate people like Barbara who are able to donate some of their spare time to help us continue raising vital funds and making a difference. Whether you’re interested in supporting our fundraising events or manning a bucket collection, we welcome informal chats to see what volunteering for Pilgrims could offer you.”
Volunteers’ Week celebrates the amazing contributions volunteers make to communities across the UK. The celebration starts on the first Monday in June every year. It’s a chance to recognise, celebrate and thank the UK’s incredible volunteers for all they contribute to our local communities, the voluntary sector, and society as a whole.
Each year, Pilgrims Hospices care for thousands of people across east Kent, with services provided from its three hospice sites in Ashford, Canterbury, and Thanet, as well as in patients’ own homes. It costs over £17.2 million annually to run these services, much of which comes from the generous support of the local community.
Celebrate Pride in style with Store50 – where fabulous meets fundraising!
Canterbury is bursting with colour this Pride, taking place on Saturday 7 June 2025 – and we’re right there with you!
Join the celebrations at Store50, the bold, brilliant, beautifully bonkers charity shop run by Pilgrims Hospices.
We’re flying our rainbow flag with pride and sharing the love with limited-edition earrings and super fun phone charms – handmade, eye-catching, and perfect for adding that extra sparkle to your look.
Whether you’re dressing for the parade, cheering from the sidelines, or simply living your best colourful life – pop in and find your Pride accessory of dreams. First-timers are genuinely surprised by the amazing stock on our shelves – and nearly everyone becomes a regular after just one visit!
At Pilgrims Hospices, we are proud to stand together during Pride and every day of the year. We are committed to being open, diverse and equal, respecting and celebrating the individuality of our patients, families, staff and volunteers. Everyone is welcome, and we are here for anyone who needs our support. Inclusivity is at the heart of our care – and we’re working to make sure equality, diversity and inclusion are woven into everything we do.
Store50 is more than a shop – it’s a joyful, planet-friendly place to shop sustainably, support your local community and celebrate life. Every purchase helps Pilgrims Hospices provide expert care to local people living with life-limiting illness. That’s style with real substance.
Eco-friendly shopping = less waste, more love.
Reuse, recycle and re-love – great for your wardrobe and the world!
Each year, Pilgrims Hospices care for thousands of people across east Kent, with services provided from its three hospice sites in Ashford, Canterbury, and Thanet, as well as in patients’ own homes. It costs over £17.2 million annually to run these services, much of which comes from the generous support of the local community.
