Jane’s Story

Jane, one of our upcycling volunteers at the Reading Superstore, talks about why she volunteers for Thames Hospice.

Volunteering can be one of the most fulfilling ways to spend your time, whether you’re giving back to a cause you care about or learning new skills. For Jane, a retired Spinal Physiotherapist who had always wanted to work for a hospice, volunteering became an opportunity to enrich her life in lots of different ways.

Jane explains: “I had long wanted to work in a hospice, and after retiring, I knew it was something I wanted to pursue. By choosing to volunteer at the new Reading Superstore, I fulfilled a lifelong aspiration. The ability to work with the hospice, even in a non-clinical capacity, allows me to feel like I am contributing to the community and helping others, which can be incredibly rewarding.

“My love of DIY and home décor allows me to upcycle furniture and transform it into something new, offering both a creative challenge and the satisfaction of seeing a project through from start to finish, usually in just one day.

“I am fairly practical and creative and so this role really suits me. You don’t have to be experienced but a love of bringing furniture back to life really helps.

“It’s not a particularly physical role but on my feet for a few hours certainly helps with my fitness levels.”

Jane volunteers one full day a week, which allows her to have clear days for other commitments. The ability to work around her schedule ensures that volunteering doesn’t interfere with her personal life but instead enriches it.

Jane adds: “I love working here and spending time with such a lovely, creative team. Reading is easy for me to get to and there is plenty of parking here.

“Volunteering for Thames Hospice has given me something to smile about. It’s given me a chance to offer my skills and achieve something very special.”