Thinking of becoming a volunteer but unsure where your time, energy and skills could be best put to use? Over the coming months we’ll be highlighting the work of some of the many local organisations making a positive difference in our community, to help inform that important decision. 

With the World Cancer Day recently held on 4th February, we focused on the work of one outstanding local charity which has been working to transform the levels of critical treatment and care offered to cancer patients in Bromley and beyond.

Founded in 2005 The Chartwell Cancer Trust works to improve and enhance cancer and leukemia care for patients and families across South London, Kent and East Surrey. In the past seventeen years the charity has grown in both size and impact and through its fundraising, works to provide vital support to oncology staff teams at four major South East regional hospitals including The Princess Royal University Hospital, Farnborough.

Funds raised go towards numerous associated projects and appeals, such as supporting NHS staffing (the charity recently committed to funding the salary for an Oncology Consultant at The PRUH), refurbishment and facilities upgrades (such as teaming up with Croydon Health Services NHS Trust to raise £750,000 to build a new Children’s Oncology Unit), providing cutting edge clinical equipment and research apparatus, establishing Childhood Cancer Groups to support oncology families within the community it supports. The organisation also funds In-ward therapeutic play resources as well as cutting edge remote education technology such as the AV1 classroom-based robot, for young cancer patients unable to attend school regularly.

However, none of this would be possible without the time and energy of a strong band of volunteers, as Joanne Bennett - Appeals and Project Manager of the charity explains:

“We could not achieve what we do without the dedication and support of our wonderful volunteers. We rely on them to run our charity shops where they really do take on the face of the charity within the community and many of our shop volunteers are well known amongst the locals! They often get involved in other activities too; stall holding and events, bucket collecting and generally sharing information about what we do and what we have coming up!”

The charity are always keen to welcome new volunteers who share its vision and as Joanne explained, there is a constantly evolving list of opportunities on offer:

“During the course of a year, as well as needing volunteers for our Charity shops in Westerham, Tatsfield, Selsdon, Croydon University Hospital and Peckham, we also hold various events big and small. We hold some larger events such as a 5k Walk which may be in one of the local parks or a larger scale cycle ride and this type of event is one where we always rely on volunteer Marshals to man the route, car parks and any stalls or the reception. We also hold an annual Strictly Dinner and Professional Dance or a Ball Style event which is immensely popular and will require help to set up and during the evening which is always appreciated!” 

To anyone thinking of volunteering, Joanne has the following message:

“There is something uniquely special about volunteering for a Charitable Organisation. Not only is it great fun, but if you do have the time to volunteer then it is a great way to immerse yourself in your community and give something back. There are also many opportunities to do or learn something new, and there is of course the friendships and relationships that you make along the way.”

Jane Warwick MBE joined the charity as a volunteer three years ago and helps to run one of the charity’s shops:

“Working here at The Chartwell Charities Westerham shop I meet people from all walks of life and have made friends. Dogs are welcome in this shop so I also get the addition of canine cuddles! I am inordinately proud of the work of The Charity and the amazing support they give to cancer patients young and old right across our region that started at The Princess Royal University Hospital here in Bromley.”

So, what are the benefits of becoming a volunteer? Jane explains:

“The benefits for me from volunteering at Chartwell are that I am contributing in a small way to support the charity that I admire so much. I meet people, have lots of amazing and interesting conversations and have made friends.”

Thinking of getting involved as a volunteer? Jane has this message:

“I would say to anyone who has a few hours to spare to come along to meet the staff and learn of the amazing work undertaken by Chartwell, it is so rewarding.”

Everyday, volunteers across the borough are making a positive difference within our community and transforming lives. If you’ve been inspired to get involved in the work of The Chartwell Cancer Trust why not head on over to their website: The Chartwell Trust