Canterbury students raise vital funds and awareness for local hospice care
A group of 16-18 year-old students from sixth forms and colleges in the Canterbury area have come together to support Pilgrims Hospices as part of the National Citizen Service (NCS) scheme.
The students visited Pilgrims’ Therapy Centre at the Canterbury hospice on 20 August to meet patients, get involved with activities and learn about what patients do in the Therapy Centre. They also had a short tour around the hospice grounds. It’s all part of the national NCS initiative to help young people build confidence and self-belief, develop skills and meet new people.
It’s really nice to be able to give back to the community; Pilgrims do such good work. My neighbours have personal connections to Pilgrims and my mum is a Pilgrims volunteer. It’s such a worthy cause.Sinclair Perry, NCS participant
16-year-old Sinclair Perry from Lyminge near Folkestone, a student at Barton Court Grammar School Sixth Form in Canterbury, championed Pilgrims when the group were deciding which local charity they would support. He said: “It’s really nice to be able to give back to the community; Pilgrims do such good work. My neighbours have personal connections to Pilgrims and my mum is a Pilgrims volunteer. It’s such a worthy cause.”
Sinclair will have his head shaved on 22 August to raise vital funds for Pilgrims’ vital, compassionate care, with more than £300 raised already. He will also soon become a Volunteer Receptionist at the Canterbury hospice, a role he’s looking forward to.
Sinclair inspired everyone to raise money and awareness for Pilgrims. It’s a great way to boost their confidence; I can already see a change in them.Harriet Ogle, NCS Team Leader
NCS Team Leader, Harriet Ogle, said: “NCS empowers young people to make a positive change in their local community. Sinclair inspired everyone to raise money and awareness for Pilgrims. It’s a great way to boost their confidence; I can already see a change in them.”
The students are also planning several fundraising events in aid of Pilgrims to continue supporting local hospice care.
Inspired to volunteer for Pilgrims?
Visit pilgrimshospices.org/volunteer to find out more.
