Volunteer Hub

“Volunteering can change your life – it changed mine for the better.” 

With Christmas festivities coming to an end, reduced daylight hours and cold weather, January can sometimes be a challenging month for our wellbeing. However, volunteering can be a great way to lift your spirits by connecting with others. More than half of our volunteers say their mental health has improved since volunteering at Cancer Research UK, and 50% of our volunteers smile more since joining us.  

Shop volunteer, Paul, joined the team at our Corstorphine superstore in 2017, following a difficult time with his mental health.  

“I needed something to get me back to myself, as I was suffering from depression and anxiety, and wasn’t going out or speaking to people. When I started at the Corstorphine superstore, I started to come out of my shell and talk to people, and even became a more confident person.  

“I volunteer behind the donation station where people bring in their donations for me to sort through and price before going out on the shop floor. I personally feel that the donation station is the heart and soul of the shop. I give advice, chat to our customers, and always try to have a laugh. 

“Whether you are outgoing or shy, volunteering will bring out the best in you and you will feel better knowing that you have done your wee bit to help.” 

And Paul’s efforts don’t stop there! A dedicated fundraiser, Paul has taken on all sorts of challenges to raise more money for Cancer Research UK. These include cycling 800 miles on a static bike (the distance between the Corstorphine superstore and the Cancer Research UK head office!), dressing up as a teddy to collect at the home of the Scotland rugby team, and walking the Southern Upland Way in a pink camouflage kit. 

“I’ve had a number of family members who have passed due to cancer, so I want to help as much as possible to raise funds so that we can eventually find a cure for all types.”