When Nick retired and was looking for something that he would enjoy, his wife (who is also a volunteer) suggested that volunteering at St Peter & St James Hospice in the garden might be an option. Nick had always enjoyed his own garden without being an expert; this enjoyment is key, as he has found that the team are a like-minded friendly group, who are always happy to share their skills and experience. He has been a volunteer gardener for around 3 years now.
Being part of a team is one of the great things about volunteering for Nick. He has told us that the coffee breaks (which were sadly missed during covid) are a great time to get to know people, to chat and sample a few homemade cakes and biscuits! The gardening team comes together every Friday and whilst they work as a unit, everyone has their own role or area, meaning that you can really take ownership. Nick finds pleasure in making a change and seeing the results of his work. The beauty of the setting of both the gardens and adjoining woodlands are so important to the well being of everyone who visits the hospice; being able to contribute to this is really rewarding for Nick.
