
YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE - VOLUNTEERING CHANGES LIVES!
Over 1,000 service and shop volunteers work with us at Northern Ireland Hospice. It’s difficult to put into words the difference they make to our organisation. Whether it’s their time or resources we are constantly overwhelmed by their dedication and selfless assistance.
Our volunteers are proud of what they do. Equally, as an organisation we are extremely proud and grateful for the time they donate to the adult or children’s hospice, in our charity shops or raising funds in the local community.
WHO CAN BE A VOLUNTEER?
Anyone 16 years of age or over who has a little time to spare and would like to make a big difference can be a volunteer. Hours spent as a volunteer are flexible enough to allow for other commitments. Service volunteers will be required to do induction training whilst other volunteers can learn on the job. References will be requested when you apply to become a volunteer. Service volunteers will need Access NI checks.
Volunteering Opportunities are available in our adult hospice, children’s hospice, in the community and in our charity shops. Currently we would especially welcome volunteer applications for the following roles:-
- Volunteer Drivers - (required weekdays, particularly in the North Coast, Mid Ulster, North Down & Newtownards areas)
We always need seasonal volunteers in the months leading up to Christmas to assist with our Christmas activities, flag days, Christmas grottos and other events. Please contact Lorraine Crawford on 028 9078 1836 or email volunteer@nihospice.org.
VOLUNTEERING AT THE ADULT HOSPICE, SOMERTON HOUSE
Opportunities for volunteering at Northern Ireland Hospice include: day hospice, in-patient unit, visitor coffee bar, reception, driving, gardening, flower arranging, library duties and clerical work. There are other roles available for those with special interests and skills such as music or hairdressing to name but a few.
VOLUNTEERING AT THE CHILDREN'S HOSPICE AT HORIZON HOUSE
The children's hospice has plenty of opportunities for volunteers. Volunteers are needed to help out in areas such as: care unit, reception, activities, administration, gardening, kitchen and housekeeping duties.We also involve volunteers in the hydrotherapy pool area.
VOLUNTEERING IN THE COMMUNITY
We have five volunteer teams in Belfast, Ballymoney, Mid Ulster (Toomebridge), North Down/Ards and Ballymena. Volunteers working in these areas provide back up to our Hospice Nurse Specialists who look after patients in their own homes. Typical duties would be: home visiting, befriending, driving, shopping and outings. In addition we have a day facility based in Ballymoney where volunteers contribute to the care and recreational activities.
To access further information and an application pack in any of the above areas, click here
VOLUNTEERING IN A HOSPICE SHOP
Shop volunteers assist in helping to raise funds for hospice care and there is always plenty to do in the shops. Working as part of a team, volunteering in a charity shop offers an opportunity to help in many ways such as: sorting and pricing stock, arranging displays, operating the till, basic accounts and customer care.
Click here for contact details of your nearest hospice shop.
To download an application pack for volunteering in your local shop, click here
VOLUNTEER REPRESENTATIVES
We urgently require volunteers who will act as ambassadors for Northern Ireland Hospice in the community. Volunteer Representatives represent Northern Ireland Hospice at cheque presentations, fundraising events and speaking engagements.
If you are interested in becoming involved contact the Volunteer Services Department today. Full training will be provided and you will have the opportunity to see at first hand the work taking place at the adult and children's hospices.
We are particularly interested in applicants from outside the Greater Belfast area who are free during the day and who would be interested in encouraging and supporting fundraising efforts with schools.
SUPPORT GROUPS
You can also help promote Northern Ireland Hospice in your area and raise much needed funds by joining our hospice Support Groups.
Please contact the Fundraising Office on: (028) 9078 1836 to get details of how to contact your local Support Group.
WHO SHOULD YOU CONTACT?
If you feel you could make a difference in your community, or if you would like more information, contact Volunteer Services Manager on volunteer@nihospice.org or Northern Ireland Hospice, Head Office 18 O’Neill Road, Newtownabbey, BT36 6WB T: 028 9078 1836.



