Located on the grounds of the West Middlesex University Hospital, Isleworth, The Mulberry Centre is a welcoming space for people whose lives have been impacted by cancer. Marie Carson, Cancer Information and Support Advisor at the centre, believes that volunteers gain much more than they give by making a difference in the lives of those in need.
Marie, an experienced reflexologist and massage therapist, originally joined the centre as a volunteer more than two years and now works there in a paid role. She shares some of the challenges when she supports people with cancer and their families.
She explains: ‘You don’t know what’s coming towards your way because every experience is unique. Some people might be very upset, while others are in shock. Being a volunteer means adapting to each person’s needs and reading physical and verbal cues, such as body language.’
Despite these challenges, Marie praises the centre’s exceptional support for both volunteers and staff. She adds: ‘You can tap into other people’s knowledge, so you’re never on you own.’
Work Hounslow has partnered with the centre to promote volunteering roles to residents in the borough. The Mulberry Centre recognises the important contribution that volunteers make to the Centre and is committed to providing a supportive environment and delivering training relevant to the roles undertaken.
Debbie Davey, the Volunteer Lead at The Mulberry Centre, highlights how volunteering can improve written and verbal communication skills, as well as interpersonal skills. She notes that volunteers can demonstrate reliability and commitment, which can improve their chances of securing future employment.
She advises: ‘Applicants should approach volunteering applications just as they would for a paid job. They would need to research role descriptions, complete application forms and attend an informal interview. They also go through training and induction, which the centre provides.’
Debbie also mentions that volunteers who demonstrate their potential, reliability and skills may be considered for paid roles when vacancies arise.
She said: ‘While there’s no guarantee of employment, several of our current staff members, including Marie, started as volunteers. Volunteering can be a great pathway for those looking to work in the sector.’
She continued: ‘Volunteers here are supporting clients who are affected by cancer, so they must have the ability to share accurate information and have a reasonable level of written and verbal English. They should also engage with people warmly and actively listen to understand clients’ needs. For welcomer roles, transferrable skills like handling challenging situations or working with customers are highly valued.’
When asked for words of encouragement for potential volunteers, Marie urges anyone interested to apply.
She remarks: ‘We often feel scared about volunteering, worrying that we’re not good enough to handle the situation. But it’s about being open and willing to give your time to something that’s so worthwhile. Don’t be scared; just step into it.’
The centre is recruiting qualified and experienced professionals to volunteer roles in counselling, complementary therapies and as wellbeing teachers. Additional roles include support for fundraising events, community engagement and welcoming clients.
Residents can learn more about the volunteering opportunities available and apply on Work Hounslow's website here.