Community Hospice celebrates volunteers

On 5 June 2025, Community Hospice hosted a joyous Volunteers Awards Night at Charlton House, welcoming over 90 guests to celebrate the incredible dedication of its volunteers as part of this year’s Volunteers’ Week.

With more than 300 volunteers supporting the hospice’s work across shops, fundraising, compassionate care, and beyond, the evening was a special opportunity to pause, reflect, and say a heartfelt thank you.

The event was made even more memorable by the presence of the Mayor of Greenwich, Cllr Linda Bird, and the Mayor of Bexley, Cllr Christine Catterall, who joined the hospice’s Chair of the Board of Trustees, Sarah Higgins, and CEO, Kate Heaps, in honouring the volunteers’ outstanding contributions.

Guests were treated to an uplifting performance by the Thamesmead Community Choir, whose songs brought warmth and smiles to everyone in attendance.

Eight awards were presented, recognising individuals and teams who have gone above and beyond in their volunteering journey:

Retail Volunteer of the Year – Lorraine Brogden

Trustee/Non-Executive Director of the Year – Mike Williams

Hospice Star of the Year – Sue Britten

Volunteer Team of the Year – The Warehouse Team

Compassionate Neighbour of the Year – Claire O'Brien

Inclusive Volunteer of the Year – Jo Evans

Uplifting Volunteer of the Year – Deborah Nash

Innovative Volunteer of the Year – Alisa Khatiwada

Each winner has made a lasting difference to the people cared for by the hospice and to the wider hospice family. Their stories are filled with kindness, creativity, and courage.

Kate Heaps, Chief Executive of Community Hospice, said:

"Our volunteers are at the heart of everything we do. Whether they’re welcoming visitors, sorting donations, offering companionship, or sharing their skills behind the scenes, every moment they give helps someone feel supported and cared for. We are so proud of each and every one of them."

The hospice’s volunteer programme is open to anyone over the age of 18 who wants to make a difference. Whether you want to meet new people, learn new skills, or give your time to something truly meaningful, there’s a role for you.

From helping in our gardens or shops to becoming a Compassionate Neighbour or lending a hand at one of our fundraising events, your time really does count, and we promise to use it wisely.

To find out more about becoming a volunteer, visit www.communityhospice.org.uk/get-involved/volunteering/.