Celebrating our volunteers at the 2025 awards
On Tuesday 3 June, we hosted our 2025 Volunteer Awards at the beautiful Greentrees Estate in Balcombe – generously donated by kind supporters – to celebrate volunteers who had reached long service milestones or been nominated for a special category award.
Hosted by our patron – broadcaster, Nicholas Owen – with support from our Chief Executive, Giles Tomsett, the afternoon recognised the invaluable contribution of volunteers from all areas of our charity, some of whom have been giving their time, energy and expertise for decades.
The awards, which coincided with National Volunteers’ Week, highlighted the extraordinary impact our volunteers make – from providing patient care and supporting in the hospice kitchen, to assisting with administrative tasks and raising vital income in our charity shops and at events.
Over 100 guests gathered to enjoy a warm and reflective afternoon, which was kindly sponsored by Crowne Plaza – London Gatwick. The event included speeches, an award ceremony and a celebratory afternoon tea.
In total, 43 volunteers received Long Service Awards, marking milestone anniversaries from five to an incredible 40 years of volunteering. Together, these individuals have given an astonishing 585 years of service to St Catherine’s.
Alongside the Long Service Awards, six special awards were also presented, following a record 45 nominations, across the following categories:
- Outstanding Contribution to Volunteering
- Outstanding Contribution to Volunteering (under the age of 25)
- Outstanding Contribution to Fundraising Volunteering
- Volunteer Team of the Year
- Outstanding Contribution to Volunteering Demonstrating our Hospice Values
- Volunteer of the Year 2025
Eileen Dunn was awarded for her outstanding contribution to volunteering, demonstrating the hospice values. Eileen said:
I am so proud and overwhelmed to receive such a prestigious award from my colleagues at St Catherine’s. Volunteering has added a new chapter to my life and the team always make me feel so valued when I come in for my volunteering shift. The awards ceremony was a really special afternoon full of celebration that highlighted how much St Catherine’s appreciates all of their volunteers.
Giles Tomsett paid tribute to the dedication and compassion shown by every volunteer who supports our work:
“At St Catherine’s we’re supported by nearly 1000 dedicated volunteers. You each make a difference, not only to the individuals we care for, but to the entire community we serve. Whether you’ve been with us for four months or four decades, your contribution is deeply valued. This event is our chance to say thank you, and to share in the joy of your individual and group achievements.”
If you’d like to join our special team and volunteer your time, take a look at our current volunteer opportunities or call our Volunteering team on 01293 447351.
