Overgate Hospice seeking more volunteers to support their vital services
Overgate is inviting people across Calderdale to kick off 2026 by volunteering with the hospice.
More than 700 people already volunteer with Overgate, including over 70 under the age of 18. The hospice relies on these generous individuals in almost every area of its work.
In many places, volunteers outnumber paid staff two to one, highlighting the essential contribution they make to patients, families, and the wider community.
Sarah Page, manager of volunteer services at Overgate Hospice, said: “Volunteering at Overgate Hospice is about so much more than completing tasks.
"Every role gives patients and families comfort and support, while volunteers gain friendships, new experiences, and the wonderful feeling of making a real difference.”
Volunteers can select from a variety of roles that match their skills, interests, and availability. Those who work directly with patients, support areas like day hospice and wellbeing services, helping patients enjoy meaningful experiences and providing friendly, reassuring company.
One volunteer said: “Spending time in day hospice has been so rewarding. Being part of activities and sharing moments with patients really brightens their day and mine too!”
Other opportunities include helping with community programmes such as Overgate’s brand-new men’s social space, which offers men a friendly place to meet and chat, and the Time To Think dementia support group, which provides support for people living with dementia and their carers.
Creative and therapeutic volunteers also make a valuable contribution by leading art sessions, complementary therapies, and counselling, helping patients express themselves, manage stress, and enjoy life’s small pleasures.
For those who enjoy being out and about, volunteer driver roles are available to safely transport patients to appointments or help deliver and collect donations across Calderdale.
One volunteer driver said: “I love being out in the community while helping people get to their appointments. It feels great knowing I’m making someone’s day a little easier.”
Volunteers are also central to Overgate Hospice’s charity shops and the Donation Centre in Elland, where more than 500 supporters help sort, prepare, and organise pre-loved items.
Their work raises vital funds that directly support patients and families while contributing to a more environmentally friendly shopping experience.
One of Overgate’s Donation Centre volunteers said: “Volunteering here gives me a real sense of purpose. Seeing donations come in and knowing they will help patients and families makes it all worthwhile and having such a friendly, supportive team around makes it even better.”
A full list of current volunteering opportunities is available at www.overgatehospice.org.uk.
For more information, call the Volunteer Services Team on 01422 387145 or email [email protected].