As Volunteers’ Week drew to a close, we had the privilege of coming together to celebrate some of the most important people in the Maggs family – our incredible volunteers.

Thanks to the generosity of Perry Manor Care Home, volunteers, trustees, staff and residents gathered for a special garden party dedicated to recognising the people who give their time, energy and compassion to support others across Worcestershire.

And what a celebration it was.

From the moment we arrived, the Perry Manor team made everyone feel incredibly welcome. Guests were treated to prosecco, savoury canapés, fish and chips, homemade cakes, desserts and even an ice cream van, creating a wonderful atmosphere of appreciation, friendship and community.

But while the food was fantastic, the real focus of the day was celebrating the extraordinary contribution our volunteers make every single day.

Over the past year alone, Maggs volunteers have contributed more than 5,700 hours of support across Worcestershire. That’s the equivalent of almost three full-time members of staff and represents an estimated value of between £65,000 and £80,000 to the charity.

Behind those numbers are countless acts of kindness.

It’s the volunteer helping to serve lunch and share a conversation with someone who has nowhere else to turn. It’s the volunteer sorting donated clothing so that somebody sleeping rough can stay warm. It’s the volunteer welcoming people into our services, supporting fundraising events, maintaining community projects, or simply offering a friendly face and listening ear.

Every hour given helps us create safe, welcoming spaces where people can access practical support, build confidence and take positive steps towards a brighter future.

During the afternoon, our Chair of Trustees, Jane Kemp, shared some incredible insights into the impact volunteers have across Maggs, while staff reflected on the many ways volunteers help strengthen our services and support people experiencing homelessness, hardship and social isolation.

One of the most touching moments came through the personal touches provided by the Perry Manor team. Volunteers were presented with handwritten thank-you cards, each expressing gratitude for the difference they make within our community. It was a simple gesture that perfectly captured the spirit of the day.

What made the event even more special was seeing Perry Manor residents join in the celebrations alongside volunteers, staff and trustees. It was a wonderful reminder of the power of community and what can happen when local organisations come together to recognise and celebrate the people making a difference around them.

We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone at Perry Manor Care Home, particularly Nicola Burton and her team, for creating such a memorable afternoon. Their kindness, generosity and attention to detail ensured our volunteers felt truly valued and appreciated.

Most importantly, thank you to every single Maggs volunteer.

Whether you give an hour a month or several days each week, your support changes lives. Your compassion, dedication and generosity enable us to continue supporting people experiencing homelessness and severe hardship across Worcestershire.

You are at the heart of everything we do.

Thank you.

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