Volunteer

Volunteers are at the heart of everything we do – we simply couldn’t operate without them. Volunteering makes an immeasurable difference to people living with cancer
in your local community. And it’s not just our members who benefit. Studies show that volunteering combats stress, depression and anxiety, boosts self-confidence and provides a sense of purpose. It’s a win–win for all concerned!

If you’re interested in becoming a Cherry Lodge volunteer, the first step is to contact our Volunteer Coordinator, Caroline Stevens, by emailing caroline@cherrylodgecancercare.org.uk
or calling her on 020 8441 7000.

Caroline Stevens

“Volunteering is incredibly rewarding, and there are so many benefits on both sides, especially in a charity like Cherry Lodge, which is very much part of the local community.”

Caroline, Volunteer Coordinator

Our volunteer roles

Volunteering opportunities at Cherry Lodge are many and varied. And whatever you’re interested in, your involvement will be hugely appreciated.

Volunteer at our centre

If you have organisational, computer and people skills, you may be able to help by staffing reception or assisting with general office duties. Volunteers staff our reception area five days a week, and duties include answering the phone, welcoming visitors, dealing with enquiries and making appointments.

Volunteer in the community

Directly support our members in the local community by becoming part of our befriending service, or a volunteer driver.

Befrienders are trained volunteers who offer emotional and practical support to members in their own homes, usually weekly. Members may be too unwell to go out, feel isolated, require support with light practical tasks or simply want companionship. To become a befriender, volunteers undergo in-house training and undertake a DBS check.

Volunteer drivers offer invaluable support by driving members to medical appointments. You will need to have your own vehicle, clean driving licence and insurance, and undertake a DBS check.

Volunteer at our shop

Our shop is run by paid members of staff, but we also rely on the help of volunteer shop assistants, who must be able to offer us at least one half day a week on a regular basis.

Volunteer your expertise

Fully qualified counsellors, complementary therapists, wellbeing instructors and activity leaders who volunteer their expertise are a hugely important part of what we offer at Cherry Lodge.

Whether you’re interested in supporting the range of counselling, therapies and wellbeing sessions we currently offer, have a skill our members may benefit from, or would like to offer something new, we’d be delighted to hear from you.

On occasion, we may also look to recruit trustees with specific skills. As a member of our board, you will be able to help shape the future of Cherry Lodge.

If you are interested in becoming a trustee please contact linda@cherrylodgecancercare.org.uk.

Becoming a volunteer

Contact our Volunteer Coordinator, Caroline Stevens, by emailing caroline@cherrylodgecancercare.org.uk or calling her on 020 8441 7000. You will be invited to Cherry Lodge for an informal chat and asked to fill out an application form. We may then take up references and carry out a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) safeguarding check.

There is an induction programme for all new volunteers, which will give you helpful information about Cherry Lodge and your volunteering role. Reasonable expenses will be reimbursed, if requested.

Big Thank You

We have so many people to thank – from our fundraisers and volunteers to local businesses and everyone who makes a donation. Meet just a few of the amazing people and organisations whose support we couldn’t do without here.

“Volunteering for Cherry Lodge is my regular reminder that kindness is still in plentiful supply. It makes a positive difference to me personally, and I hope my contribution helps bring smiles and hope to others.”

Iris, Cherry Lodge volunteer