Volunteers Changing Lives Across Devon and Cornwall Communities
The Quiet Heroes Keeping Our Communities Strong
Throughout Devon and Cornwall, ordinary people are doing extraordinary work behind the scenes. From the corridors of the Royal Cornwall Hospital to the thriving community garden in Honicknowle, Plymouth, volunteers are the backbone of services that keep our regions thriving. Pete Eddy, a recently retired volunteer with the Friends of the Royal Cornwall Hospital, describes his work simply: offering patients a chat, a smile, or helping with the hospital trolley. It’s unpaid labour, but the impact is profound. Ella Stracey, chief strategy officer at Royal Cornwall Hospitals NHS Trust, emphasises just how vital these volunteers are. “They’re exceptionally important to our workforce,” she explains. “Our patients benefit enormously, and our staff appreciate the extra hands, the friendly faces, and that cup of tea.” Make a Difference Day, recognised during National Volunteers Week, shines a spotlight on this often-invisible work. These volunteers span all ages and backgrounds—proof that giving back isn’t limited to any particular demographic. Whether you’re recently retired like Eddy or looking for meaningful community connection, volunteering offers something invaluable: the chance to truly make a difference where you live.
Growing Food, Growing Confidence: The YMCA Community Garden Story
Just outside Plymouth’s city centre, the YMCA Community Garden in Honicknowle represents what’s possible when passionate volunteers unite around a shared goal. The garden, developed by eleven dedicated volunteers, now produces fresh fruit and vegetables that feed families through the local foodbank—addressing real food security concerns in our region. The team brought diverse skills: a former gardener, a carpenter, and many others united by a desire to help. Vic Hibbert, who won the green award at the Make a Difference Awards in 2025, highlights an unexpected benefit: the transformative effect on young volunteers. “When they arrive, they’re often shy and hesitant about mixing with older people,” Hibbert explains. “But by the end, they’re sat having tea with us, chatting about everything.” Marie-Louisa Niehus, volunteering for four years, echoes the importance of passion. Despite having only a small home garden, she’s found her calling here. “You need to find what genuinely excites you,” she advises. “If you’re not having fun and enjoying it, you won’t keep coming back.” This garden proves that local volunteering addresses hunger while building intergenerational bonds and community pride across our neighbourhoods.
How You Can Get Involved: Opportunities Waiting in Your Area
If you’re thinking about volunteering—whether you’re planning to go to Newquay, live in Plymouth, or anywhere across Devon and Cornwall—there’s a role suited to you. Organisations desperately need people of all ages and experience levels. The Royal Cornwall Hospital welcomes volunteers for ward support, retail activities, and companionship roles. Community gardens need growers, planners, and maintenance helpers. Local sports clubs, heritage sites like those around Fistral Beach, and tourism organisations always welcome extra support. What matters most is finding what moves you. Perhaps you’ve recently retired and want purpose. Maybe you’re a young person seeking confidence and new connections. Or you could be someone passionate about food security, environmental conservation, or health and wellness. Contact your local hospital volunteer services, community gardens, or organisations supporting your interests. Many offer training and flexible hours. As Pete Eddy says, “If you’ve got time to spare, it’s about meeting people and giving something back.” Local action starts with one person deciding to show up. Visit Newquay’s tourism office or your parish council for volunteer opportunities near you. This week, as we celebrate volunteers, ask yourself: what could you contribute to make your community stronger?
Source: Volunteers ‘exceptionally important’ in Devon and Cornwall
