Lois-Jane celebrates fantastic volunteering journey with Pilgrims Hospices
Lois-Jane Thompson, an NHS worker from Folkestone, has been volunteering for Pilgrims Hospices since the charity’s earliest days.
After her father, John, died from cancer in 1975 aged 47, her mother, Sylvia, began home sitting for other local people to give families some much-needed respite; an initiative started by Ann Robertson, Pilgrims’ founder and lifetime president, and Christine Pledger, a founding fundraiser of the charity. At the same time, fundraising got underway to build the first hospice, and so began Lois-Jane’s lifelong volunteering journey.
I work full-time, I have a very busy family life, and I do only as much as I am happy with – but I also feel that the little I do is truly appreciated.
Lois-Jane
Lois-Jane said: “We didn’t have the benefit of a hospice when my father died, but we did have a Marie Curie nurse, and I’m so pleased that the hospices are now there for others.
“My mother was involved with monthly coffee mornings at the Holy Trinity Church in Folkestone and bucket collections at local shops and Eurotunnel. She sold Christmas Cards, daffodils and Christmas bells at various locations. Our family supported her when we could. When evening fundraising events began, my mother didn’t feel up to this, but my sister, Katy, and I jumped in wholeheartedly to help with registrations, and we haven’t looked back! Over the years, I’ve been involved with so many Pilgrims events – never missing a year! Even during the COVID-19 pandemic when events were held virtually, I did what I could to share and help publicise them.
Lois-Jane at the Cycle Challenge 2024
“Due to my own ill-health, I’m unable to walk, run or cycle to raise money for Pilgrims, which is why I help with registrations. And please don’t ask me to bake a cake!”
Lois-Jane enjoys every aspect of her role at Pilgrims events, meeting people and joining in with the bustling, uplifting energy of the day. She is often recognisable by her trademark pink cowboy hat.
She added: “I love checking people in and being there to welcome them back, congratulate them and put a medal around their neck; it’s truly rewarding. I always thank them for helping to raise funds by pushing themselves to run, walk or cycle, and they thank me back – but I say: “I do what I do because I can’t do what you do!” The money wouldn’t be raised if people didn’t take part in events, but without the people behind the scenes the events couldn’t be held – and so I feel we’re all doing our bit. I think it is testament to how well things are organised by the fundraising team that we see new and old faces year after year taking part, and I have made some good friends along the way.”
And what would Lois-Jane say to someone who is considering volunteering for Pilgrims?
“Please do it! There are so many different roles and there is no commitment beyond what you are happy to do, be it an hour holding a collecting bucket or spending all day at an event. There are also various roles available within the hospices and local shops. I work full-time, I have a very busy family life, and I do only as much as I am happy with – but I also feel that the little I do is truly appreciated.”
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 give care and comfort to thousands of people in east Kent who are coming to terms with an illness that sadly cannot be cured. The charity support patients to live life as well as possible until the very end, free from pain and distress.
4th June 2024
Celebrating volunteer Dr Peter Biggs, a Trustee and a pillar of support at Pilgrims Hospices
Volunteers’ Week, celebrated between 3 and 9 of June 2024, serves as a poignant reminder of the immeasurable value volunteers bring to various organisations, charities and communities. It’s a time to express gratitude for their tireless efforts and to raise awareness about the transformative power of volunteering.
Dr Peter Biggs, a retired GP with an illustrious career spanning 42 years in Canterbury, found himself drawn to the mission of Pilgrims Hospices after witnessing the vital role they played in providing specialised care to terminally ill patients. Reflecting on his journey, Peter shares, “I saw the growing work at the hospice over the years. Without the special care, terminal care would have been very much secondary. I wanted to continue to support a service that I very much valued.”
His path to volunteering with Pilgrims Hospices began serendipitously, as he recalls, “I was looking for something where I could use my experience in a way that I thought would be valuable for people, and the hospice came along just at the right time.” Encouraged by his wife to explore volunteering opportunities, Peter found himself drawn to the role of trustee when Pilgrims Hospices put out a call for applicants.
I saw the growing work at the hospice over the years. Without the special care, terminal care would have been very much secondary. I wanted to continue to support a service that I very much valued.
Dr Peter Biggs
As a trustee, Peter assumes a multifaceted role, overseeing, supporting, and advocating for the patients, their families, and the broader community. Contrary to common misconceptions, trusteeship entails more than just governance; it involves offering guidance and support to the executive team while championing the interests of the community.
One aspect that sets Pilgrims Hospices apart is its commitment to diversity and inclusivity, evident not only in its volunteer base but also in its board of trustees. Peter highlights the diverse expertise among the trustees, celebrating the depth of understanding it brings to addressing various issues, a model he believes other organisations could learn from.
In his role, Peter has witnessed first-hand the profound impact of Pilgrims Hospices’ volunteer-driven initiatives. From fundraising events to community outreach programs, he has seen the transformative power of volunteerism in action. “The team at Pilgrims couldn’t do the valuable work they do, without the support of our amazing volunteers,” he emphasises.
With a wide variety of volunteering opportunities, if you want to do somethingincredibly rewarding and valuable, Pilgrims Hospices is a good place to be.
Dr Peter Biggs
“I’ve found Pilgrims to be a passionate supportive community of staff, volunteers, and one that is welcoming to all. With a wide variety of volunteering opportunities, if you want to do somethingincredibly rewarding and valuable, Pilgrims Hospices is a good place to be.
“I’m delighted to say I took part in the Pilgrims Golf Day fundraiser last year, and thrilled to be on the winning team, this year my wife and I will be taking part in the Pilgrims Way Challenge walk. As part of my role as a trustee, I’ve also visited a number of the hospice shops and experienced the wonderful warmth of the volunteers that work within them.”
Peter’s journey as a volunteer at Pilgrims Hospices has been one of profound fulfilment and growth. Through his experiences, Peter underscores the importance of open dialogue surrounding end-of-life care and the need for continued support for hospice services.
This Volunteers’ Week, let us join together in celebrating individuals like Dr Peter Biggs, whose selfless dedication and unwavering commitment enrich the lives of those they serve. In honouring their contributions, we acknowledge the transformative power of volunteering and the profound difference it makes in our communities.
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 give care and comfort to thousands of people in east Kent who are coming to terms with an illness that sadly cannot be cured. The charity support patients to live life as well as possible until the very end, free from pain and distress.
31st May 2024
Introducing Niomi: A dedicated Ward Support Volunteer
Niomi is a cherished member of the Pilgrims Hospice Ashford community, where she serves as a Ward Support Volunteer.
Her journey and experiences reflect her deep commitment to providing comfort and support to both patients and their families during some of life’s most challenging moments.
Embracing the role with compassion and experience
Niomi’s background is rich in caregiving and community involvement. After working as a professional nanny for ten years and raising her own children, she transitioned into teaching and later, community care. Her extensive experience, particularly with clients with dementia and those at the end of life, has equipped her with the skills and empathy needed to support hospice patients and their families effectively.
Every situation is unique. It’s about working out what’s required for each individual.
Niomi
Inspired by Dr. Kathryn Mannix’s patient-led approach to end-of-life care, Niomi joined Pilgrims Hospices. With the End in Mind, a book by Mannix, profoundly influenced her perspective, reinforcing the importance of open, honest conversations about death and dying.
Niomi with Dr. Kathryn Mannix
A day in the life of a hospice volunteer
At Pilgrims Hospices, Niomi’s days are filled with meaningful interactions. She visits patients and families, offering her presence and assistance, which often frees up time for nurses. Her role involves simple yet significant actions — listening, offering reassurance, and providing a comforting presence.
Many people have never been to a hospice before and don’t know what dying looks like. Surprisingly, many are very open about their views on death and dying. It’s about making a difference to patients and families, putting them at ease when they are ready to come to the end of their journey.
Niomi
Niomi emphasises the importance of respecting boundaries and ensuring that patients are comfortable with her company: “Every situation is unique. It’s about working out what’s required for each individual,” she says.
Supporting families and enhancing the hospice environment
Recognising a need for more activities for visiting children, Niomi took the initiative to provide bookmarks, drawing paper, and other art materials. This effort, supported by Hospice Services Manager, Wendy Kelk, helps ease the pressure on parents and creates a more welcoming environment for young visitors.
Niomi also highlights the supportive and positive atmosphere among the hospice staff: “I talk to the nurses, and they often tell me this is the happiest they’ve been in years. Annie Hogben, Expert Volunteer Project Lead, in particular, is a wonderful support to all of us. She makes you feel great, as if you are the only one in the room.”
Balancing volunteering with professional life
In addition to her volunteer work, Niomi runs her own Personal Assistant (PA) company, which allows her to manage her time effectively and keep her Wednesdays free for volunteering. Her PA role involves companionship, meal preparation, and assisting clients with organising their lives, focusing on those with dementia.
Looking ahead with gratitude
Reflecting on her role at Pilgrims Hospices, Niomi feels both lucky and blessed to be part of such an incredible team: “This environment understands how a person dies, enabling patients to remain dignified. It’s how everyone deserves to die, frankly. I’m very grateful to be, in a small way, part of this.”
Niomi and her husband at Cycle Challenge 2024
Her passion for the hospice and its mission shines through in every interaction, making a significant impact on the lives of those she serves. As Niomi continues her journey, she remains dedicated to supporting Pilgrims Hospices, hoping to inspire others to join her in this fulfilling and essential work.
In addition to offering her time and energy as a dedicated ward support volunteer, Niomi, alongside her husband, also trained diligently to participate in the fundraising event Pilgrims Hospices Cycle Challenge in May 2024. Demonstrating remarkable courage and commitment, she undertook the 30-mile ride across the beautiful Kent countryside during the 14th annual event, contributing not only through her volunteer work, but also by actively raising funds to support the hospice’s vital services.
Join us at Pilgrims Hospices
Niomi’s story is a testament to the profound impact of volunteering. If you feel inspired by her experiences and would like to learn more about how you can make a difference, please consider joining us at Pilgrims Hospices. Together, we can provide compassionate care and support to those who need it most.
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 give care and comfort to thousands of people in east Kent who are coming to terms with an illness that sadly cannot be cured. The charity support patients to live life as well as possible until the very end, free from pain and distress.
22nd May 2024
Steven: “I’m privileged to work with incredibly awe-inspiring volunteers”
Steven Joseph from Ashford started volunteering at Pilgrims Hospices’ Hythe shop in 2021. The time he gives makes such a positive difference to people across east Kent who are in need of Pilgrims’ vital, compassionate care.
Steven shares what he enjoys about his role and encourages others to embrace volunteering.
Steven started volunteering because he wanted to give back to his local community and help others.
He said: “I’m privileged to work with incredibly awe-inspiring volunteers who are highly accomplished and show remarkable compassion, much witty humour and a rare elegance in their can-do work ethic, all while raising funds for Pilgrims.
“Volunteering in the Hythe shop helps to generate valuable income for the charity; my role includes serving customers, merchandising and sorting stock for sale.”
Volunteering for Pilgrims is very rewarding, whatever role you choose. The diversity of the volunteer team, with their many different experiences, benefits everyone involved – patients, families, staff and volunteers alike.
Steven
Joanne Mardle, Hythe Shop Manager, said: “Steven has been a great asset to our team; he is always willing to help in any way he can.”
Steven added: “Volunteering for Pilgrims is very rewarding, whatever role you choose. The diversity of the volunteer team, with their many different experiences, benefits everyone involved – patients, families, staff and volunteers alike.”
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 give care and comfort to thousands of people in east Kent who are coming to terms with an illness that sadly cannot be cured. The charity support patients to live life as well as possible until the very end, free from pain and distress.
Lepper family celebrate decades of supporting Pilgrims Hospices
Suzanne Lepper and her family from Ashford have been supporting Pilgrims Hospices since the charity’s earliest days. They began by holding supper parties at their house, which friends paid to attend; this helped to fund the Canterbury hospice, Pilgrims’ first site.
They now support the charity in many capacities, including at events and within the east Kent community. Their commitment and dedication enable Pilgrims to continue providing vital end-of-life care to local people.
Suzanne with an Ashford Snowdog
Suzanne, a retired NHS nurse, became involved with Pilgrims through her best friend, Suzanne Martin – the daughter of Ann Robertson, Pilgrims’ founder and lifetime president.
Suzanne said: “There was no local hospice at the time, so patients with terminal illnesses were cared for in hospital, which wasn’t ideal. When Suzanne told me about her mother’s vision, we really wanted to make it happen and put it at the top of our wish list.”
The Lepper’s supper parties proved so popular that they also started hosting BBQs with live music; these were attended by hundreds of guests, and raised substantial amounts of money for Pilgrims.
Suzanne is now a Hospice Ambassador, which involves collecting fundraising cheques from pubs, clubs, coffee mornings, sky dives and many more community events.
Her husband, Peter, is a Pilgrims Trustee, and the whole family – including their daughters, Victoria and Rachel and son-in-laws, Chris and Noel – take on various volunteering roles, too.
A fundraising gathering at the Lepper’s house
Suzanne added: “We sell raffle tickets at the summer and Christmas fairs and marshal at the Cycle Challenge, Pilgrims Way Challenge and Santas on the Run! events. Peter and Victoria are often back-walkers, collecting signs and checking that participants are safe on the routes, and in addition Victoria is a reception volunteer at the Ashford hospice. We also supply and crew two vans for Tree Recycling collections in the Ashford area.
“We already have the next generation coming on board; our three-year-old grandson, Oliver, likes nothing better than a visit to the Ashford fundraising office to see the team!”
Lou Newman, Community Fundraising Manager, said: “A huge thank you to the amazing Lepper family for all their fantastic support over the years. They are a real inspiration to us all!”
The family have experience of Pilgrims’ care through loved ones and friends, so they have seen first-hand the difference that fundraising and volunteering makes to the local community.
Suzanne added: “My mother-in-law received the most wonderful end-of-life care in 2002; our family were treated with great compassion and nothing was ever a problem. In 2003, Peter and I sadly lost one of our closest friends, Steve, after a 10-month battle against cancer. The night before he died, we were there with his wife and another friend having a beer and a laugh. Pilgrims’ staff made us so welcome, gave Steve a gin and tonic, and helped to make our last memory of him a lovely one. Over the years, I’ve visited friends and patients many times, and have never failed to be impressed by the level of care given to everyone, not just the patient.
“As a volunteer, I really enjoy seeing the lengths people go to to raise money for Pilgrims. Our family love the challenge of selling out of raffle tickets and earning more than the last time! It’s wonderful to be able to support a charity that is so needed by local people at all stages in their diagnosis.
“To anyone thinking of volunteering for Pilgrims, I’d say: Do it! The satisfaction it brings cannot be underestimated, and you can give a little time or a lot – Pilgrims is grateful for whatever you’re able to offer.”
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 give care and comfort to thousands of people in east Kent who are coming to terms with an illness that sadly cannot be cured. The charity support patients to live life as well as possible until the very end, free from pain and distress.
Michael: “Volunteering is one of the best things you can do”
Michael Reynolds from Ramsgate volunteered within Pilgrims Hospices’ retail team from 2021-2022. He enjoyed his role at the Ramsgate shop, helping with the day-to-day operations that keep it running smoothly and provide an excellent experience for both customers and donors.
The Pilgrims team helped Michael to develop his skills, and he felt so supported that he ultimately found permanent employment as a Retail Supervisor at a local Morrisons Daily store.
The thank you card that Michael gave to the Ramsgate shop team when he left his volunteer role at Pilgrims
Michael shares how his volunteer role made a positive impact in his life and why others should get involved.
Michael’s mum, Sara, was diagnosed with cancer in 2017 and cared for by Pilgrims towards the end of her life.
Michael said: “Before I started volunteering, my mental health was not at its best. My mother passed away in 2019, after which I’d planned her funeral and had to try to find somewhere to live. I didn’t think I was ready for work, or even ready for anything. I’d barely had time to grieve.
“But I couldn’t stay at home, moping around. My friends had been so supportive but I needed to get out there.
“I heard that Pilgrims’ Ramsgate shop was looking for volunteers and decided to go for it. Pilgrims had been so wonderful and supported Mum and my family during her battle with cancer – some of the staff even attended her funeral. I wanted to give back however I could; volunteering seemed like a fantastic way to do that.
“When I started, I was very much “in my shell”, but over time I gained confidence. At the Ramsgate shop, I didn’t have colleagues, I had a family. I loved every moment. I operated tills, processed donations, priced them up and helped move furniture donations. I had a wonderful relationship with staff and customers alike and thoroughly enjoyed my time as a volunteer.”
It’s one of the best things you can do; you meet great new people, gain valuable experience, and develop truly helpful life skills. Volunteering is a crucial part of supporting your local community and the charity you are volunteering for.
Michael
Alex Hancock, Shop Manager, added:
“When Michael started with us, he was very shy. As time went on, his confidence grew. He was always very polite, helpful, and an absolute credit to the store. So many customers and volunteers would compliment his manners and courteousness. He became a real asset to the team, willing to step in at short notice if needed. I was delighted when Michael got the job at Morrisons Daily, but also gutted for the store as I knew we were losing a valuable part of the Ramsgate family. We wish him all the very best in his role and future career.”
And what would Michael tell someone who is considering volunteering for Pilgrims?
“It’s one of the best things you can do; you meet great new people, gain valuable experience, and develop truly helpful life skills. Volunteering is a crucial part of supporting your local community and the charity you are volunteering for. Never, ever, pass up the opportunity.
“By volunteering for Pilgrims, you become part of a family who all want to do right by the community. Pilgrims pulled me out of a depressed state and pushed me to do better for myself, and now I’m a Retail Supervisor.
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 give care and comfort to thousands of people in east Kent who are coming to terms with an illness that sadly cannot be cured. The charity support patients to live life as well as possible until the very end, free from pain and distress.
