World Youth Skills Day

Meet Ben Palmer, a 19 year-old medical student and volunteer receptionist at Ashgate Hospice. Ben has been volunteering with us for over two years. He started volunteering in May 2022 as a way to give back to his community and gain insights into the healthcare setting to support his medical school application.

Ben has just finished his first year at Sheffield Medical School and shares his experience volunteering with us.

Having enjoyed volunteering at the hospice, I have been lucky enough to be able to continue to do so in my university holidays.

I volunteer on the main reception with another member of staff which means I always feel supported in my role. Being at the front of the hospice means there is always a buzz of other volunteers and staff members, all of whom are very friendly and caring.

Volunteering on Main Reception is very rewarding. Ensuring people feel welcomed and comfortable when visiting the hospice is a privilege.

To other young people thinking of volunteering at the hospice, I would say ‘do it!’ It has given me the opportunity to develop my communication skills and confidence.

Ashgate is truly a special place for patients, families, staff and volunteers.