"I am part of a team again. I have purpose and am making a difference"

Meet Ruth - a volunteer at Isabel Hospice Shop in Cuffley

When Ruth Salter left her busy and social role as Buying Manager for Tesco Stores Ltd, she was instantly in a position as carer for her elderly parents and in-laws. Compassionate by nature, Ruth was very happy to take on such a heavy responsibility and it acted as a distraction from what she had recently given up in her working life. However, when Ruth found herself caring for just one parent, due to the spare time and lack of interaction with others, she started to feel isolated and bored.

Ruth has now been a valued shop volunteer for Isabel Hospice, working in the Cuffley branch, for five years. Here she talks about her experience so far…

Why did you decide to start volunteering?

As a keen shopper, I started to pop into my local Isabel Hospice shop in Cuffley. It was a great place to go, and it ‘got me out of the house’, getting back into the community. The staff were really friendly and welcoming and it felt like having friends again. Applying to volunteer there was the obvious next step.

How often do you volunteer for Isabel Hospice?

I volunteer once a week and have a regular shift. It was an easy process and very flexible, I was able to pick shifts that work around me. I also help out at different events. Last month I helped on an Isabel Hospice vintage stall at Kings Cross in London, it was great fun!

I volunteer once a week and have a regular shift. It was an easy process and very flexible, I was able to pick shifts that work around me. I also help out at different events. Last month I helped on an Isabel Hospice vintage stall at Kings Cross in London, it was great fun!

How has volunteering changed you?

I am part of a team again. I have purpose and am making a difference which makes me happy. Volunteering has maintained my independence, I’m not just mum, wife or nan, it has given me a real sense of purpose in the community.

What is the best thing about volunteering?

That’s a tough question, as there are so many benefits. But based on my personality and what I enjoy most, I would say I get to have a good laugh with my colleagues and customers.

What would you say to someone considering volunteering?

Do it, there is so much to gain. It will make you live happier, longer and stronger. You will never feel isolated and you’ll not only share your skills with others but develop new ones too !

Finally, would you recommend volunteering to others?

I would recommend volunteering to everyone, it is so rewarding on a personal level, but at the same time GIVES to others, at a time when support and love is the most precious gift.

We would like to take the opportunity to thank Ruth for all of her amazing volunteering support over the past 5 years, and look forward to many more!

If you would like to become a volunteer for Isabel Hospice, or if you are a volunteer and would like to tell your story, please contact [email protected]