"Volunteering in a hospital feels great."
Ian is one half of a loyal volunteering duo alongside his wife Chris, who are a key part of the Royal Voluntary Service retail team at Worcestershire Royal Hospital.
Ian's venture into volunteering traces back ten years when Chris encouraged him to join her. Ian quickly became an enthusiastic volunteer, dedicating two days every week to support the charity.
"Around 10 years ago, Chris decided I didn’t have enough to do and so she roped me into volunteering with her! But I haven’t looked back since and now I do two days every week."
Ian assists in the hospital's Royal Voluntary Service shop, where he likes to help out with the practical tasks that play a crucial part in maintaining a seamless service for hospital patients, staff, and visitors.
The couple's journey took a poignant turn when Ian himself became a patient in the oncology unit due to a recurrence of prostate cancer. For Ian and Chris, their personal experience highlighted the value of the support provided by the friendly faces of shop and café staff and volunteers. Ian's firsthand experience strengthened his commitment to the hospital community, making his role with Royal Voluntary Service even more meaningful.
"Volunteering in a hospital feels great. It’s a way for me to give back and Play My Part."
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