We asked Michelle about her time with Hospice at Home West Cumbria:
Why did you decide to volunteer for Hospice at Home West Cumbria?
It was a way of reconnecting with the community as I'd been away for 48 years down south. I wanted to interact with people, support them, engaging with the public and people as individuals and listening to them. It also gives me an outlet for two days of the week.
What is your role and what does it involve?
I volunteer in the hospice shop, which is engaging with the customers, looking at the merchandise we put out and pricing them. As well as interacting with other volunteers as a team, and helping to support the manager, Judith.
What are the challenges of your role and what do you enjoy about your role?
I don't think I've actually met any challenges, as I've been dealing with the public throughout my whole career, whether it was in childcare, adults or the elderly. It's something I've always done, even as a little girl I always wanted to support people.
How do you feel about Hospice at Home West Cumbria?
I feel that HHWC is an organisation for the community, they support the community and there is a a need for organisations like ourselves. I think it's very important that we are working for those who are in need in West Cumbria.