Volunteers and businesses thanked for service

This year’s event also acknowledged the contribution made by several local businesses and community supporters in front of 210 guests in a suite at the JobServe Community Stadium.

There are more than 950 volunteers in a variety of roles across the organisation including its 24 charity shops and maintenance, reception and bereavement support teams, all supporting the work that St Helena Hospice provides for people living with life-limiting conditions across north east Essex.

Co-Chief Executive of St Helena, Kate Heslegrave, thanked everyone for their dedication, time and passion, and Chair of Trustees, Fran Hyde, presented the awards. Deputy Mayor Cllr Paul Smith made a speech to recognise and thank volunteers and the community for supporting the hospice.

Wendy Marcon, Voluntary Services Manager at St Helena Hospice, said:

“Our annual Thank You Day is our opportunity to show our appreciation to the incredible volunteers at St Helena.

“We have over 950 volunteers and without their invaluable contribution, we would not be able to provide the care and support that we do.  

“We are very proud to celebrate 178 volunteers who have reached significant milestones in their volunteer service at St Helena this year and we feel it is important to recognise and acknowledge their achievements, as well as their dedication and commitment. 

“During the event, volunteers were shown a video message from a hospice patient who shared his experience of hospice care and personally thanked our volunteers. It was a powerful and emotional reminder of the impact of their support and why it is so important.

“We are incredibly grateful for everything our volunteers do.”

106 people received 3 year service awards; 34 received 7 year service; 22 received 10 service; 2 received 20 year service; 2 received 25 year service; 2 received 30 year service; and 1 person was awarded for 40 years of service.

Certificates of Outstanding Contribution were awarded to Graham Miller, Fundraising Ambassador; Lene Johnson, Retail volunteer; and Malcolm Kimmance, Maintenance team.