Get to know Paul, Chairman at Cransley Hospice Trust

What attracted you to the role of Chairman at Cransley Hospice Trust?
I’ve had a strong affinity with End of Life care and the Hospice movement in general for many years.  In the most difficult circumstances, I have seen the amazing care and comfort given to patients and those closest to them at their times of need, including my own Dad and Mother-in-law.  I joined as a Trustee in early 2019 and was asked to become Chair at the start of 2020.

What is your favourite thing about volunteering for Cransley?
Being part of a fantastic and diverse group of people who bring their skills, experience and time so willingly and selflessly to the cause.  Whether that is on the checkout in the retail store, marshalling the traffic at a fundraising event, being a receptionist at the Hospice, sitting as a trustee or the many many other roles that volunteers undertake.  At the same time, it’s also fantastic to see the fun, camaraderie and friendships that blossom alongside all the work!

Could you pick a favourite memory whilst volunteering?
Oooo, it is always so difficult to pick one…  I really enjoy seeing the whole community swing into action on new fundraising initiatives, I fondly recall being in a local garden centre just after Christmas witnessing the brilliant staff and a large number of the volunteers working together with some fantastically supportive local businesses to collect and recycle Christmas Trees from local residents.

When you’re not volunteering, what do you get up to in your free time?
That’s easy… Dad taxi to my two children! Emma 14 and Jake 17 (although Jake has recently passed his driving test, so my wife, Ruth,  and I have enjoyed the novelty of getting a few lifts from him too!) I also play in a local brass band and enjoy playing golf when I can squeeze it in.

Have you taken part in many fundraising activities?
Yes, I try to support as many as I can.  I particularly recall Jake and I doing a sponsored run during the pandemic… neither of us are known for our running prowess, but we managed to raise some cash!

What piece of advice would you give someone considering volunteering for CHT?
Just do it!  Please throw yourself in with whatever time you can spare.  It will be so very rewarding in ways that perhaps you can’t see until you do.

If you could use 3 words, how would you summarise your time at Chairman?
Rewarding, Challenging, Unfinished!

Feeling inspired? Click here to find out more about volunteering.