Volunteers’ Week 2025: Meet Jennifer
To celebrate Volunteers’ Week, we’re spotlighting some of the amazing people who give their time and talents to support St Ann’s Hospice. One of them is Jennifer Scragg, a valued café volunteer with a deep connection to the hospice.
Jennifer Scragg began volunteering in the café at our Heald Green hospice in 2017, having previously volunteered at Seashell Trust.
She says: “It’s one day of the week when I can still do what I used to – my background was catering.” She previously worked in catering for Manchester City Council – mainly in schools, but occasionally helping out at civic events at Manchester Town Hall and even being involved in the 2002 Commonwealth Games.
Jennifer has a personal connection to St Ann’s. Her husband was a patient twice before he died at the hospice in 2013.
I wanted to give something back for the care that he had and I had – and the kindness. It took me a long time to come back because he had hoped to die at home, but died the day before. He came in for what was then called daycare too – he loved making things. I’ve got a drawer full of necklaces and things he made here. Jennifer Scragg, Café Volunteer
She returned to volunteering in February 2024, after a break during the pandemic. The café, though quieter than before, still offers a place of comfort for visitors and patients. “I like being here because I like to talk to people. Visitors appreciate being able to get something to eat and drink. Some people are here for a few weeks, so I get to know them. They see a friendly face and chat.”
It’s a nice atmosphere – people don’t believe you if they haven’t been – all the staff, regardless of what they do are always very friendly. Jennifer Scragg, Café Volunteer
Jennifer’s memories of St Ann’s go back much further. Over 50 years ago, when her father was very ill with cancer, she heard talk of a hospice being built in Manchester. “It wasn’t in time for him, but not long after,” she recalls.
Jennifer says she would definitely recommend volunteering to others:
Do it! It benefits the hospice, and yourself. Once you retire you can very easily get into a routine of going to garden centres and going out for lunch! This is something meaningful. Jennifer Scragg, Café Volunteer
Thank you to Jennifer and all our volunteers for the difference they make every day.
Volunteers’ Week runs from Monday, June 2 to Sunday, June 8.
Could you volunteer at St Ann’s?
You’ll be challenged, inspired, and empowered to help us achieve our purpose and to play your part in making a difference. We’re currently looking for volunteers in our cafés, as well as in fundraising, offices, charity shops and more, including skilled roles.
Find out more