04/06/2026
🗨️ “What I enjoy most about volunteering is the people. There are many inspirational people I meet along the way."
This week is Volunteers Week - so meet Alan Bowen who is a St George’s Hospital Charity volunteer and finalist in the Volunteer of the Year at gesh CARE Awards 2025 and this week's staff story.
This is where we hear about the difference one of our dedicated staff members makes to our patients and communities, and how they are unique ❤️
Alan said “Prior to retiring, I worked as a Distribution Warehouse Manager for Smiths News for 42 years. Very quickly, I realised retirement wasn’t for me, so shortly after my wife enquired at St George’s Hospital Charity about volunteering opportunities, I joined and haven’t looked back. I wanted to stay active and continue contributing meaningfully to my community, and the charity provided the perfect opportunity to use my skills while giving back locally.
“I’ve now been volunteering for ten years. My main role is supporting the Fundraising Team. No two days are the same, my tasks vary from data input and stock counts to gathering fundraising materials and supporting events. I enjoy the variety, it keeps things interesting and means I’m always learning something new.
“What I enjoy most is the people. Whether it’s NHS colleagues, the public, or fundraisers, I really value those interactions and the sense of community. There are many inspirational people I meet along the way, and that’s what makes the role so rewarding.
"Being a finalist for Volunteer of the Year at the gesh CARE Awards was incredibly motivating. It meant a lot to be recognised in that way, and it gave me a real boost knowing that the contribution I make, often through the small, day-to-day tasks, has been seen and valued.
“One of my favourite parts of the year is selling Christmas cards and getting involved in the build-up to Christmas with staff and patients. It’s a simple tradition, but it brings everyone together and is, without doubt, my favourite time of year. I also always look forward to the annual supporter thank-you event.
“I think volunteering within a healthcare setting is so important because people bring a wide range of life experience that really adds value. Being part of St George’s Hospital Charity has become a meaningful and rewarding part of my life, giving me the chance to give back, make a difference, and continue to grow. My advice to anyone thinking about volunteering is simple: just do it. You’ll get so much more from it than you expect.
“Outside of volunteering, I’m a lifelong Wolverhampton Wanderers fan, though I do try to keep that a secret!”
