Hayley’s Story

Since joining the hospice team in September, Hayley has become a familiar face on the reception each Thursday. Her volunteering journey began when she reached out to St Margaret’s while searching for a counselling placement. Although the hospice couldn’t take her on in that capacity at that time, an unexpected opportunity arose. 

“There happened to be a role going on the reception,” she recalls. “So, I came in, met everybody, and absolutely fell in love with the people and the place.” 

Her connection to St Margaret’s didn’t start there, though. She’s witnessed firsthand the depth of care and compassion that we provide. “In 2009, one of my friends who was poorly, he actually got married here,” she shares.

The hospice also holds deep personal significance for Hayley’s family. Long before St Margaret’s was built, the land it now sits on was a spot she and her father would visit together to pick mushrooms. 

“I lost my dad last month,” Hayley says. “It’s been a really tricky time. He didn’t come through the hospice here, but I was really pleased when he asked for donations from his funeral to go to St Margaret’s.” 

Hayley’s role at St Margaret’s is a source of deep connection and meaning.

Whether she’s welcoming visitors, answering calls, or simply chatting over a cup of tea, Hayley treasures every moment.  

A particular highlight for Hayley is meeting patients who attend the Sunflower Centre. The group affectionately call it the “Sunshine Club”, due to the warm and friendly atmosphere. At the Sunflower Centre, patients connect through crafts, conversation, and other activities.  

“They always stop by the desk for a little chat,” she says with a smile. “They’re just the nicest group.” 

It’s no surprise that Hayley encourages others to get involved.

But this spring, Hayley is taking her support for the hospice even further. “I started thinking about how I could raise money because I volunteer here and it’s really close to my heart,” she says.

“At first, I thought: ‘oh my goodness, no way! Not my precious dreadlocks.’ But then, the more I thought about it, the more I thought I could do it.” 

This was more than a haircut. It was an act of selflessness, generosity, and transformation.  “Over the last few years I have become more confident, more self-aware, and more me. And part of that has been my hair and my dreadlocks. They are really important to me and who I am.” As such an important symbol, Hayley thought that this would be the perfect way to raise awareness and funds. 

On the day of the haircut, the hospice was buzzing with many new, excited faces. “When I first told my friends that I was having my hair cut, they weren’t very sure at all. Some of them were quite shocked, so I invited them to come up and support me.”  

As the haircut began, what began as nervous laughter soon became cheers of celebration. One by one, friends, family, and hospice colleagues stepped forward to take a snip, each holding the scissors with a mix of honour and hesitation. It wasn’t just hair falling to the floor—it was a symbol of Hayley’s, identity, love, and bravery woven tightly into every lock. Dreadlocks, long and cherished, tumbled down in slow motion, greeted by cheers, applause, and bursts of giggles.  

Despite her initial nerves, the experience left Hayley feeling empowered.

Hayley’s original fundraising goal of £150 was quickly surpassed, with donations reaching over £450! Hayley is extremely grateful for the love and support of everyone around her. “Without their support I certainly wouldn’t have even considered doing something like this.”