The Dougie Mac hospice in Stoke-on-Trent has issued a heartfelt appeal for new volunteers to join its essential team in 2026. The charity, which provides vital palliative care, depends heavily on the support of community members willing to give their time.
A Call for Community Support in 2026
Dougie Mac is looking for individuals seeking a fresh challenge, an opportunity to learn new skills, or a way to meet new people. The organisation is keen to hear from anyone in the local community who has some spare time and wishes to make a tangible difference. No previous experience is necessary for many positions, as the hospice provides comprehensive, role-specific training to all successful applicants.
The Essential Role of Volunteers
Sarah Thomas, Head of Volunteer Services at Dougie Mac, emphasised the critical importance of their volunteer force. "Our volunteers are essential to the work we do," she stated. "Every single one of them plays an important role in the day-to-day running of the charity."
The hospice currently benefits from a dedicated team of more than 800 volunteers who regularly donate their time. These individuals collectively contribute thousands of hours every month, supporting over 40 different teams across the hospice's operations.
Diverse Opportunities to Help
Volunteer roles at Dougie Mac are remarkably varied, offering something for almost every interest and skill set. Opportunities span from practical support in the hospice kitchens, preparing food for patients and families, to more specialised tasks like photographing items for the charity's eBay fundraising site.
A significant 60% of the volunteer workforce operates within the charity's network of local shops. These volunteers are instrumental in generating a crucial £6 million in annual income. "Quite simply, we couldn't manage without them," Sarah Thomas confirmed, highlighting their indispensable contribution to the hospice's financial sustainability.
Other roles include assisting at fundraising events, which are vital for maintaining the charity's services. The breadth of positions ensures that volunteers can find a role that suits their availability and interests.
Anyone inspired to get involved and learn more about the specific roles available is encouraged to visit the official Dougie Mac volunteering website. Full details and the application process can be found at www.dougiemac.org.uk/volunteering.
