Today is Microvolunteering Day, so we thought we would mark it by highlighting a very special team of volunteers who go above and beyond to support our Hospice.
Since 2002, we have operated a coffee shop within the Magistrates Court on Lincoln High Street. The coffee shop is entirely run by volunteers, with over 70 people supporting over the past eight years. We currently have nineteen active volunteers helping to keep it going. 
The team is led by Vanessa and Pam, who have been the backbone of the coffee shop for the past six years. They organise training, sourcing and ordering supplies, arranging rotas and covering holidays – all in their own spare time.
Vanessa said, “I started in the coffee shop seven years ago, helping out just once a week. After a couple of years, my manager became ill and asked if I would help out more and help her to run it. When she had to leave due to ill health, I took over full time. I have run the coffee shop since then with a fantastic group of ladies and men.
“We all work as a team and help each other out when we can. I love every minute of it and get so much out of it. I choose to volunteer for St Barnabas because my dad was cared for in their Inpatient Unit. They looked after him so well, even when there was no hope, and I want to give something back to such a fantastic organisation.
In 2019, the coffee shop achieved a five-star food hygiene rating, which is testament to the hard work and dedication of the volunteers, and the pride that they take in their roles.
David and Agnes Thorn both volunteer in the coffee shop. They said, “After retirement, volunteering helps a person to pursue outside interests and meet new people every day. We have been volunteers at the shop for over seven years. 
“Being a volunteer for St Barnabas is a very worthwhile role; knowing that the money we raise in the coffee shop helps to support the important work carried out in the Hospice. We meet people of all different ages and from all walks of life, along with regular magistrates, solicitors and the very helpful court staff. It is very enjoyable, and we hope to continue volunteering in the future.”
In total, the coffee shop has had an astonishing turnover of £285,055, with an additional £3,109 being raise by their collection boxes. This is entirely down to our fantastic volunteers.
Although the coffee shop is currently closed due to the coronavirus outbreak, it will be in need of more volunteers to join the team once it re-opens. If you are able to help, whether that be once a week or more, please email [email protected] or call 01522 518 221.