Volunteering with St Vincent’s Hospice means being part of something deeply meaningful-supporting people living with life-limiting illness, and their families, at every stage of their journey, including the final days of life.
Our volunteers are at the heart of everything we do. From helping to raise vital funds in our shops and at events, to supporting our teams within the hospice, their time, care and compassion make our work possible.
Every moment you give matters. Whether you have a little time or a lot, your support helps us continue to provide compassionate care to those who need it most.
We offer flexible opportunities to fit around your life -whether that’s a few hours each week or occasional support when you can. Even just an hour of your time can have a real impact.
You can volunteer with us from the age of 16, and there’s no upper age limit. We welcome people from all walks of life.
How do I find out more about available roles?
You can explore all our current opportunities on our volunteer opportunities page: https://stvincentshospice.org/volunteer-opportunties/
You can apply using the form at the bottom of this page or via any of the role descriptions on our opportunities page.
Application forms are also available in our preloved and gift shops, as well as at the hospice in Howwood. If you’d prefer a form to be posted to you, just get in touch at volunteering@svh.co.uk.
Please note that all applications require two references. Some roles may also require a PVG or Standard Disclosure check – this will be clearly outlined in the role description.
A reference helps us get to know you a little better. It should come from someone who can speak about your character and personal qualities.
We’re unable to accept references from close family members.
We understand that providing references isn’t always straightforward. If you need support with this, please don’t hesitate to get in touch-we’re here to help
Anne’s Story
“My connection to hospice care began in 2004, when my husband was cared for during a long illness. The compassion and support my family and I received stayed with me, and I knew I wanted to give something back.
Not long after, I started volunteering in a hospice day centre. At that point in my life, I understood just how much that care means, and it felt important to support others going through similar experiences.
I later stepped away from volunteering while working with the NHS, but the connection never really left me. In 2025, when I reduced my working hours, I knew it was the right time to come back – this time as a Reception Volunteer at St Vincent’s Hospice.
After retiring later that year, volunteering became a really important part of my next chapter. Now, I volunteer on reception and also in the Preloved Shop in Bridge of Weir. It’s given me the chance to meet new people, build friendships, and feel part of something again.
“I started volunteering in the Johnstone shop back in 2003, after my husband Bernard passed away. It was a difficult time, and I wanted something to help me move forward and give something back. I never imagined I’d still be here over 20 years later.
I’ve loved every minute of it. I love the customers, I love sorting the rails, and I love being part of the team -it really does feel like a community.
There’s one moment that’s always stayed with me. A man once brought a kettle up to the counter, and I said to him, ‘If I’d seen that first, you wouldn’t have got it – it’s lovely!’ He paid and left, but about ten minutes later he came back with the kettle and handed it to me.
I said, No, no – you wanted that, but he just smiled and said, ‘No, I want you to have it.’ I thought it was such a kind thing to do. That kettle now sits pride of place in my kitchen, and it always reminds me of the generosity you see every day here.
“My connection to St Vincent’s Hospice goes back nearly 40 years.
My dad was cared for there in 1990, when the hospice was on North Road. He had lung cancer that had spread to his brain, and it was a really difficult time for our family. There were moments of confusion and distress, but the staff were incredible.
They didn’t just care for my dad – they cared for all of us. The support they gave our family meant more than I can ever put into words.
After I retired, my wife Anne and I decided we wanted to give something back. We started volunteering together at the Accord Hospice shop in Johnstone when it first opened. We did it for several years, and it gave us a real sense of purpose and community.
Sadly, Anne’s health declined and she passed away in 2018. Not long after that, I was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. I went through chemotherapy and radiotherapy in 2019, and then of course COVID came along – it was a challenging time.
When things started to return to normal, I knew I wanted to come back and volunteer again.
Now, I volunteer every Tuesday at St Vincent’s Hospice. In the mornings, I sort and count the collection cans from local businesses, and in the afternoons I help out in the Johnstone shop. It’s something I take a lot of pride in.
Complete the form below or contact Laura on Tel: 01505 705635 or email volunteering@svh.co.uk
