Claire House Children’s Hospice celebrates the importance of it’s volunteers and why you should get involved

Volunteering can make a huge difference across the community and to the people who step forward to help.

Across Liverpool and the Wirral, those who volunteer with Claire House Children’s Hospice say the experience has helped them build friendships, grow in confidence and find a renewed sense of purpose.

For many, it’s the connections that matter most. Around 85% of volunteers say they’ve made new friends through volunteering, helping to ease loneliness and feel part of something positive, according to data collected by the Merseyside charity.

Claire House supports seriously and terminally ill babies, children, young adults and their families across Merseyside and beyond, from its Wirral hospice, Liverpool site in West Derby and in the community.  

But while volunteering supports others, it also gives a lot back to the people who help too. 

Claire House Volunteer Photographer Michelle Webster, 39, from Birkenhead, said:

“Volunteering has given me purpose, connection, and a way to use my skills for good. It’s a reminder that small acts of kindness can make a difference. To anyone considering volunteering, do it! You’ll gain so much more than you give.”

Nearly two thirds of Claire House volunteers say their mental health has improved since getting involved, often thanks to the routine, support and sense of belonging that comes with volunteering. 

Others speak about personal growth, with 65% saying they feel more confident and better equipped with skills they now use in everyday life.

And perhaps most rewarding of all, 95% feel they are genuinely making a difference, creating pride, motivation, and a sense of fulfilment.

Amy Harrison, Head of Volunteering, says volunteers play a vital role at Claire House:

“Our 2025 Volunteer Survey, sent to all active volunteers, gives a snapshot of what volunteering with us is really like. Our volunteers tell us they feel genuinely valued, and many say they’re happier and more content in their lives since getting involved. 

“It just goes to show how giving a few hours of your time can have a lasting impact, not only on children and families and the wider community, but on the volunteers themselves too.”

Businesses across the region are also getting involved. In 2025, 511 people from 40 companies took part in corporate volunteer days, giving more than 2,400 hours of their time and raising £174,000 for the hospice. Alongside supporting a vital local service, many teams say the days helped boost morale and bring colleagues together.

Find out more on the Claire House website.

Find out more about the incredible work of Claire House and other Liverpool charities on our website.

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