Befrienders hold a special role in our Hospices, working directly with the children. They are the largest group of volunteers across our sites who work alongside our care teams, with 47 volunteers giving their support alongside work, family commitments and studying. Many commit to a weekly or fortnightly befriending session, but the role can also be flexible to fit people’s busy lives, for example our students who return in in the holidays.
What do Befrienders do?
Befrienders bring much needed social and emotional support to children and families and the Care team. Their contributions bring companionship, comfort, respite, brightness and fun by engaging in play and activities. They also provide links to the community that strengthen connections for Acorns leading to further support and partnerships.
Befrienders follow a person-centred approach; they are led by the children’s interests and preferences which helps volunteers to make positive and meaningful connections with the children and families. Many of our befrienders will build lasting bonds with children who we care for over the years and become an important part of their stays with us, that they look forward to.
Volunteering at Acorns
One of the nurses at our Birmingham Hospice said “Our Befriending volunteers bring positive energy, diversity, creativity and connection. When a child is visited by a befriender it’s like being visited by a brother, sister, friend or grandparent.’
Danielle, a Befriender at the Birmingham Hospice, said “My role as a befriender at Acorns is very rewarding and humbling. I can see my support is appreciated, so it inspires me to do more. Being a volunteer who also lives locally I have been able to make connections and help to build good partnerships with local businesses, churches and other community sources.”
Melissa, a Play & Activities Assistant, started her journey as a Befriending Volunteer. She told us “I started life at Acorns as a Volunteer Befriender. I always felt valued and part of the Acorns family. Volunteering gave me an opportunity to fine tune my skills in a specialist setting. It was such a rewarding role and volunteering helped me gain the job role that I now really enjoy”
Thank you to our Volunteer Befrienders
Thanks to your ongoing support, we’re able to recruit, train and care for volunteers and in turn, they help us provide exceptional experiences for the children and families who rely on Acorns.
Every donation, every fundraising event, every act of kindness makes this possible. You help us create joyful, meaningful moments and you support the volunteers who make them happen.
To our Befriending Volunteers – and to you – thank you.
Michael Phillips has been a volunteer at Acorns for over 10 years and moved over to the Blackheath superstore when it opened in late 2024. Since then, he has taken this in his stride, excelling in every aspect.
It was a pleasure to be able to present Blackheath superstore volunteer Michael with the August Volunteer of the Month award.
Michael’s hard work
Michael took ownership of children’s toys, ensuring the shelves are full, priced correctly and prioritising Gift Aid, putting his own ideas into place on how to make this department better and supported new volunteers in this area when needed.
Recently he has overcome personal challenges and is now proficient on the till. He often volunteers extra days or stays a little longer to provide till support – even doing split shifts every now and then so he still gets his coffee mornings with his friends.
Michael has also turned his hand to fundraising and since the Acorns Summer Raffle was launched he has sold almost 5 books. His next venture is a sponsored static cycle ride where he and the Blackheath team aim to cycle the distance between our 3 hospices.
His commitment to the store and Acorns as a whole is truly commendable.
Why not get involved yourself?
It’s thanks to volunteers like Michael that our network of charity shops is so successful, bringing in over £2 million a year. Our Retail team simply couldn’t operate our shops without their help.
Make a difference in your local community and volunteer at Acorns.
With less than one week to go until hundreds of runners take to the streets for the annual Run Solihull, one local man is preparing to take on the challenge in memory of a cherished friend and in support of a cause close to both of their hearts.
Rob Sharratt, originally from Coventry, will be lacing up his running shoes for the Run Solihull half-marathon this August in honour of his dear friend Nick, who sadly passed away from liver cancer earlier this year.
Rob is running in support of Acorns Children’s Hospice, the event’s official charity partner for 2025 and a local cause that meant a great deal to Nick.
“Nick was a great guy,” Rob said. “He had a knack for rallying people to donate to Acorns, sending out bulk emails to friends to raise support, organising charity events and always thinking of Acorns. He was the heart of it all.”
Nick was a passionate supporters of the charity, which provides vital care for seriously ill children across the West Midlands, regularly organising fundraising golf days and dinners through his local rugby club, Old Wheatleyans RFC, where the pair first became friends.
Over the years, both supported Acorns, recognising the charity’s life-changing work with children and families facing the darkest of times. Nick, in particular, was devoted to the charity, so much so he became an active member of one of its longest-running fundraising groups, the Acorns Coventry Fundraising Support Group, which has raised over £1.5 million in its 36-year history.
“I always donated when I could, but Nick was the one who truly gave himself to Acorns. When I heard about the Walsall hospice being at risk of closing a few years ago, it really hit home. Acorns means so much to so many families in the West Midlands.”
Rob’s decision to run the half-marathon came at an especially poignant time. “Just after Nick died, I got an email from Acorns about Run Solihull 2025. I’d never done the race before, but it just clicked – it felt like the right thing to do, for him.”
Though no stranger to fundraising or running events, having previously run for causes such as animal welfare and multiple sclerosis, this year’s race is a unique one for Rob. “This one is personal. I’m running because it mattered to Nick and because of Acorns incredible work supporting children with life limiting and life threatening conditions.”
Already, the community is showing its support. “I mentioned the run to some friends recently and they immediately pulled out some money from their pockets to donate. That’s the kind of spirit Nick inspired in people.”
There’s still time to join Rob and the rest of the #TeamAcorns runners at Run Solihull 2025, taking place on Sunday 10 August. The event, organised by RunThrough, includes a half marathon, 5k and children’s race, making it the perfect day for the whole family to get involved.
By joining #TeamAcorns, runners will receive a bespoke package of support from the charity, including a limited edition Acorns running vest, tailored training and fundraising ideas, a unique themed medal and free official race photos to remember the day.
Starting and finishing in Malvern Park, in Solihull Town Centre, the event is a unique opportunity to run the closed roads of Solihull. Adding to the fun, there will also be a fun-filled event village open on the day, where participants can expect live performances, bag storage, charity stalls, food and drink vendors and plenty of toilets to use before you head off onto the course.
Runners for #TeamAcorns are being asked to raise a minimum sponsorship amount which goes directly towards supporting Acorns vital work providing specialist palliative care for seriously ill children and support for their families.
Acorns Children’s Hospice provides specialist palliative care for babies, children and young people with life limiting and life threatening conditions, and support for their families.
In the past year, the charity has cared for more than 780 children across the West Midlands, and supported over 1,000 families, including those who are bereaved. Children visit Acorns for rehabilitative respite, symptom management, emergency and end-of-life care.
This care and support is provided from Acorns three hospices, based in Birmingham, Walsall and Worcester, and in the community.
Acorns needs around £35,000 each day to provide its children’s hospice care, with two thirds of that amount coming from generous donations and fundraising by the local community.
For your final chance to sign up to Run Solihull 2025, email the Events team via events@acorns.org.uk
There’s just two months to go until 5,000 runners hit the streets for Worcester City Runs 2025 – and this year Acorns Children’s Hospice returns as the official charity partner for the city’s favourite running event.
Whether you’re chasing a new personal best or jogging with friends, #TeamAcorns is calling on runners of all abilities to lace up their trainers and hit the ground running at this year’s Worcester City Runs to help raise vital funds for seriously ill local children.
Taking place on Sunday 14 September, this fun-filled event, organised by Events of the North, features a half marathon, 10k and Paula Radcliffe’s Families on Track fitness challenge, making it the perfect way for the whole family to get involved and give back.
Sophie Boreham, Events Manager at Acorns, said: “We’re absolutely thrilled to return as the charity partner for this wonderful event. But Worcester City Runs is about more than just running – it’s about making a difference.
“By joining #TeamAcorns, every kilometre you run helps provide care and support to local children and families when they need it most.
“We can’t wait to see the streets of Worcester bursting with a sea of Acorns vests this September. Let’s make this year the biggest and most impactful yet!”
By joining #TeamAcorns for free, runners will receive a bespoke package of support from the charity, including an Acorns running vest and finishers’ t-shirt, tailored training and fundraising ideas, a unique themed medal and a post-race goody bag to remember the day.
Steve Cram, Worcester City Runs Race Director, said: “I visited the Acorns hospice in Worcester last year and was blown away by the brilliant work that the team does there, supporting people who are dealing with hugely challenging circumstances. Witnessing that first-hand gave me an insight into the impactful ways in which Acorns could use the money that it raises as official charity partner of the Worcester City Runs.
“That partnership was really effective in 2024 and we’re delighted that it is continuing for 2025, helping Acorns to continue to make such a difference for children and young people and their families in this area.”
Runners for #TeamAcorns are being asked to raise a minimum sponsorship amount which goes directly to supporting the specialist care the charity provides for children with life limiting and life threatening conditions.
Acorns Children’s Hospice provides specialist palliative care for babies, children and young people with life limiting and life threatening conditions, and support for their families.
In the past year, the charity has cared for more than 780 children across the West Midlands, and supported over 1,000 families, including those who are bereaved. Children visit Acorns for rehabilitative respite, symptom management, emergency and end-of-life care.
This care and support is provided from Acorns three hospices, based in Birmingham, Walsall and Worcester, and in the community.
Acorns needs around £35,000 each day to provide its children’s hospice care, with two thirds of that amount coming from generous donations and fundraising by the local community.
At Acorns, every hour a volunteer gives is a gift – a gift of time, of kindness, of care. Whether it’s a few hours a week or many years of service, their support makes the biggest difference to the children and families we care for.
And some volunteers have been with us almost as long as we’ve been here in the community, like the wonderful Gaye Bye.
Gaye has been part of the Acorns family for an incredible 35 years. Her journey began back in 1990 after a conversation with a friend, who happened to be one of our Trustees, encouraged her to get involved. Starting on reception while working part time, Gaye quickly found herself drawn into all aspects of hospice life.
Gaye’s volunteering journey
Over the years, Gaye has taken on many roles, from befriending to bringing in her much-loved PAT dog, Petra, to brighten the days of the children.
But it was in the kitchen that Gaye found her perfect fit, helping to cook meals and share in those everyday moments that mean so much. She still remembers cooking sausages for tea and how much the children enjoyed them.
So what keeps someone coming back for 35 years? For Gaye, volunteering has always been second nature. It’s about giving back to her community, staying busy, and being surrounded by kind, compassionate people.
“It’s a happy place,” she says. “Everyone is so kind – I just love being here.”
Gaye’s memorable moment
One of her most memorable moments came during our 30th Anniversary celebrations in 2018, when she had the honour of meeting Prince William during his visit to the hospice; a special highlight in a long and rewarding journey.
Gaye says she couldn’t imagine not volunteering at Acorns.
“Acorns is as much a part of me as I am a part of Acorns.”
A big thank you to Gaye
It’s hard to imagine our hospice without Gaye’s warm smile, generous spirit, and steady presence. Her contribution over the past 35 years is truly remarkable, and her impact has been felt by countless families, children, staff and fellow volunteers.
Thank you, Gaye, for your dedication, your compassion, and everything you’ve given to Acorns. You’ve helped make our hospice feel like home.
At Acorns Children’s Hospice, play is powerful. It’s in the sound of shared laughter, the quiet joy of reading a story together, or the messy excitement of arts and crafts. Helping to bring these magical moments to life are our incredible Volunteer Befrienders – compassionate individuals who give their time to support children and young people to play, explore and simply be themselves.
Whether it’s helping a child enjoy the calming Sensory Room or getting creative during a music session, our Befriending Volunteers are a vital part of our hospice family. Their impact is profound, offering not just companionship and fun, but also connection and comfort.
We spoke to two of our wonderful volunteers – Debi and Pippa – to find out what being a Befriender at Acorns means to them.
Volunteer Befrienders experiences
Debi, who began volunteering after retirement, says that according to her post-retirement volunteering wish list, it was obvious she would find herself at Acorns. “I wanted to work with children, to be hands-on and to add value. I also have personal experience of the loss of a child, and I wanted to work with children who have a life limiting condition or who are reaching their end of life.”
Pippa first joined Acorns while still in sixth form. “I was hoping to gain experience in a care setting and help out in my community,” she explains. “When I went to university in Birmingham, I continued volunteering at the Selly Oak hospice alongside my studies.”
For both volunteers, the joy comes from the variety, the connection, and the small, special moments.
Every session is different
“I love the seasonal events – Santa visits, sensory walks, summer crafts – and being included by the staff to help ensure every child is involved,” says Debi. “Over time, I’ve come to know some of the children well, and I love remembering the little things they enjoy. Oh and the cuddles! You can’t overlook the cuddles!”
Pippa adds: “Each session is different. One week I might be playing football or making friendship bracelets, the next I could be dressed as Santa’s helper or holding a snake with the children! The variety keeps it fun and meaningful.”
There’s no such thing as a ‘typical’ shift, and that’s part of the magic.
Debi explains: “So many factors come into play, which children are visiting the hospice, how they’re feeling, what they’ve already done that day. It can change by the minute. You learn to go with the flow.
“Acorns is full of life, fun and laughter”
Acorns changed their views
Pippa explains her Sunday routine: “I arrive and change into my purple Befriender’s scrubs, then check in with the Nurse in Charge to learn who’s staying that day. I’m told about the children’s preferences, and needs, then jump into the day, whether that’s stories, crafts or garden play. Some days are busy, others are quiet, but there’s always something special.”
Before volunteering, both Debi and Pippa were unsure of what to expect. But Acorns quickly changed their views.
“I didn’t think the hospice would be sad,” says Debi, “but it’s so much jollier than I expected. What staggered me most is how quickly the children engage with me. They’re so used to being surrounded by different people, they often connect faster than children who don’t have complex needs.”
Acorns is full of life and laughter
Pippa shared a similar experience: “I was nervous at first. I wasn’t sure how to act in such emotional circumstances. But Acorns is full of life, fun and laughter. I didn’t realise how much respite care was offered either – it’s not just for end-of-life. I’ve learnt so much from the incredible staff and volunteers.”
Volunteering doesn’t just benefit the children. It deeply impacts the volunteers too.
“I didn’t expect to feel so proud,” says Debi. “I like being useful, and it’s a good day when I get a happy response from a child. I’ve learnt so much from them and I cherish every hug and cuddle I’m given.”
Pippa, now training to be a GP, says her experience at Acorns has shaped her career: “It’s had a huge impact on my life.
“My understanding of children with life limiting conditions has influenced how I care for patients and families. But it’s also something I love to do to give back to the community.”
Thank you to our Volunteer Befrienders
Thanks to your ongoing support, we’re able to recruit, train and care for volunteers like Debi and Pippa and in turn, they help us provide exceptional experiences for the children and families who rely on Acorns.
Every donation, every fundraising event, every act of kindness makes this possible. You help us create joyful, meaningful moments and you support the volunteers who make them happen.
To our Befriending Volunteers – and to you – thank you.
We want to say a huge ‘thank you’ to all of our amazing supporters who trekked along the Great Wall of China on the Acorns China Trek. They took on the challenge of a lifetime to raise vital funds to help us continue providing our specialist nursing care to children and families across our region.
This incredible group of people raised over a jaw-dropping £155,000 – absolutely smashing their original target of £60,000. In fact, we had so many supporters sign up to the trek (double the number we expected!), that we increased the target to £105,700… and they exceeded that too! We are completely blown away by their dedication and generosity.
Among the group were current and former Acorns staff, loyal supporters, and friends old and new. Before they set off, we caught up with a few of them to find out what inspired them to take on this unforgettable trek – and how they were feeling as the adventure approached!
Louise was inspired by Acorns
Louise, who works at Acorns, is no stranger to the incredible impact our hospice care has on children and families.
“I was inspired to take part in the charity walk because I see first-hand the amazing work Acorns Children’s Hospice does. Knowing I could help raise funds and awareness while pushing myself physically and mentally will make it feel even more meaningful.”
Louise was loving the training – a great excuse to get outside and explore.
“Dare I say I’ve got the bug and have fallen in love with hiking!”
She was especially excited about that magical moment when they’d finally get to step onto the Great Wall:
“It’s going to be such a surreal and proud moment. Knowing we’ll have trained, fundraised, and come together for something so meaningful – that’s what will make it unforgettable.”
Of course, she knew it wouldn’t be without its challenges.
“Being away from my son Harry, my husband, and our dog Chester will be tough. And let’s just say I’m not looking forward to the bugs and basic toilets!”
A cause close to Emma’s heart
Emma saw her 40th birthday as the perfect reason to do something extraordinary – and what could beat scaling one of the world’s greatest wonders for a cause close to her heart?
“I wanted to do something amazing after turning 40, and what better way than trekking across the Great Wall all in aid of an incredible charity.”
Training went well, even if the odd push from her trekking mates Lindsay, Sarah and Julie was sometimes needed. “They give me a boost when I need it!”
Emma was most looking forward to soaking up the whole experience:
“From getting to know our fellow trekkers to creating memories that will last forever.”
Like many others, leaving her family behind was her biggest worry – but she carried their love and support with her every step of the way.
Coventry Support Group
We can’t forget the brilliant Coventry Support Group, who have been raising funds and awareness for Acorns for over 36 years. Founded by Martin Banbury, the group sets out each year to raise £50,000 – and to date, they’ve raised a phenomenal £1.5 million for Acorns.
When the Great Wall Trek came up, Martin and his wife Felicity, who’ve previously taken on challenges in New Zealand and across Vietnam and Cambodia, rallied five other members to join them.
Together, the group raised over £36,000, on top of setting individual training plans, hosting fundraising events, and even organising group training walks which, quite rightly, ended with a bite to eat and a drink.
“We’re really looking forward to sharing this challenge with other like-minded people. There’ll be a huge sense of achievement once it’s done, knowing that we’ll have pushed ourselves and raised such a significant amount for Acorns.”
Acorns China Trek – an incredible achievement
To everyone who took on this once-in-a-lifetime journey trekking along the Great Wall of China, thank you. You’ve made such a difference to the lives of the children and families who rely on Acorns, and we couldn’t be prouder to have had you walking for us.
We were cheering you on every step of the way. We hope you enjoyed every moment, you all achieved something truly incredible.
If you’re interested in joining one of our future treks or events, check out our events calendar.
Acorns volunteers make a real difference to the care and support we can provide to local families, and we’re shining a light on someone who truly reflects the heart of Acorns volunteer community – Sam Claughton.
Sam has been volunteering with us at Acorns in Birmingham for over six years, but his connection to the hospice began even earlier. While attending Selly Oak Trust School, Specialist Science College for students with special educational needs, based right next door, Sam first got to know Acorns through his mum, Alex. She was volunteering with her Pets as Therapy (PAT) dog, Scamper, and Sam would often come along to visit. It didn’t take long before he was fully involved himself.
Since then, Sam has become a vital part of our volunteer team, joining the Acorns Choir, lending a hand in the gardens, and even taking on the responsibility of feeding and caring for the hospice fish tank.
Growth through volunteering
But more than anything, Sam’s time at Acorns has been a journey of growth. Volunteering has helped him build confidence, push his own boundaries and discover new strengths. From learning how to strim and mow lawns to taking on more responsibility, Sam has gained practical skills and personal pride.
“Volunteering gives me a purpose,” Sam says. “It’s the best thing I’ve ever done.”
He’s not just talking about the tasks, it’s the people and the sense of community that mean so much to him. Sam describes Acorns as ‘a family away from family’ – a place where he feels accepted, supported and safe. It’s where friendships have been formed, jokes are shared, and everyone looks out for each other.
Sam is also known for bringing the average age of our volunteers down, proudly being one of the youngest in the team, though he calls himself a ‘young person with an old soul’. One of his most memorable moments was when fellow gardeners and choir members surprised him with a secret birthday party – a reflection of just how loved and valued he is.
Volunteering has given as much to Sam as he gives to us. His warmth, dedication and humour brighten our days, and his story is a reminder of how powerful community, purpose and kindness can be.
Thank you, Sam, for being such an important part of the Acorns family. You inspire us all.
Get involved in volunteering
We’re always looking for kind-hearted people to join our wonderful community of volunteers. Whether it’s cheering on our amazing supporters at events, lending a hand in one of our vibrant charity shops, or offering a warm welcome in our hospices, there are so many ways to get involved across the Midlands.
You don’t need any special experience, just kindness, enthusiasm, and a little time to spare. Every moment you give helps us provide vital care and support to local children and families.
Explore our latest volunteering opportunities today! Your time could mean the world to a family at Acorns.
Spring has seen an outpouring of community spirit across the Midlands, with local football clubs Walsall FC, Solihull Moors, and Aston Villa championing our work.
Through a series of matchday takeovers, these clubs didn’t just deliver thrilling football action; they provided a powerful platform for Acorns to connect with over 50,000 passionate fans. The result? A staggering £10,000 raised – a sum that will make a very real difference, enabling us to provide the care, love and comfort families facing the unimaginable desperately need.
The secret ingredient to these successful takeovers? Our amazing army of Public Collection volunteers who, armed with a smile and a bucket, make these days a resounding success. And it wasn’t all hard work – plenty of fun was had along the way!
Public Collection volunteer experience
We caught up with some of our newest Public Collection volunteer recruits to hear about their experiences, and Katy Chesters, the Assistant Headteacher at St Thomas More Catholic School in Willenhall, perfectly captured the spirit of the Walsall FC takeover day for her students:
“This was our first opportunity volunteering for Acorns and what an experience it was!” Katy said. “Acorns has been selected as one the charities our Parish will support this year and when our Sixth Form spotted the chance to fundraise at a local Walsall FC game this seemed perfect.
“It was a fantastic day from start to finish. We were cared for and looked after by all the team of staff from Acorns, the stewards at the game; and the fans from both sides were amazing in their support and contributions.
“In all we found this a most humbling experience, knowing that our efforts have made, in some way, the lives of families of those coping with illness in our local community more bearable.
“Without doubt St Thomas More Catholic School will be signing up for further events and doing all we can to support this wonderful charity.”
We’re so grateful to Katy’s team for giving up their time to help us to raise vital funds for our hospices.
Get involved in volunteering
At Acorns, we’re always on the lookout for new, enthusiastic volunteers to join our fun and impactful collections and Community Giving Events. From the roar of sporting events to the friendly atmosphere of community fairs, and the everyday bustle of supermarkets and garden centres, there’s a whole host of opportunities to get involved with across the Midlands.
No prior experience is necessary – just a smile! If you’d like to come join one of our fun events and help us change lives, please take a look at our upcoming opportunities. Your gift of time could be the next game-changer for Acorns!
It was an exciting day for Harborne residents and book lovers alike last Friday (28 March) as Acorns Children’s Hospice opened its brand-new superstore – complete with its very own library boasting 6,000 secondhand books.
Shoppers at the official opening discovered a library of possibilities, with the new 13,000 square-foot store offering a wide range of quality pre-loved homeware, furniture and electronic goods alongside clothes, toys and books – all at bargain prices.
The Harborne shop is the charity’s sixth superstore and its largest to date, helping to raise crucial funds for local children with life limiting and life threatening conditions and support for their families.
Gary Pettit, Retail Director at Acorns, said: “We are absolutely thrilled to open our newest superstore in Harborne, bringing a fantastic selection of pre-loved items to the local community.
“This is more than just a shop – it’s a place where people can come together, find great bargains and support a truly important cause.”
One of the standout features of the new superstore is its one-of-a-kind library, home to thousands of books across all genres. Whether you’re a fan of fiction, non-fiction or children’s stories, there’s something for everyone – with hardback novels priced at just £4.50 and paperbacks at £2.50.
Gary added: “We know Harborne is a community that loves books, so we’re incredibly excited to offer this unique space where book lovers can discover hidden gems while helping us provide vital care for seriously ill children.”
The new shop also offers a designated donation drop-off zone, making it easier than ever for supporters to donate their items.
With Acorns retail operation generating more than £2 million in profit each year to fund its lifeline care for local children, the charity is calling on the community to shop, donate and volunteer at the new superstore.
The Harborne superstore will be open from 9am to 6pm, Monday to Saturday, and from 10am to 4pm on Sundays. Contact the shop by telephoning 0121 559 6157, or arrange a free furniture collection by email at furnitureharbone@acorns.org.uk
Acorns Children’s Hospice provides specialist palliative care for babies, children and young people with life limiting and life threatening conditions, and support for their families.
In the past year, the charity has cared for more than 780 children across the West Midlands, and supported over 1,000 families, including those who are bereaved. Children visit Acorns for rehabilitative respite, symptom management, emergency and end-of-life care.
This care and support is provided from Acorns three hospices, based in Birmingham, Walsall and Worcester, and in the community.
Acorns needs around £35,000 each day to provide its children’s hospice care, with two thirds of that amount coming from generous donations and fundraising by the local community.
Give us the gift of time and volunteer at our Harborne superstore. Visit www.acorns.org.uk/volunteering for current opportunities or to register your interest.