Volunteers who give up their time at a children’s hospice were treated to cream teas today as a way of saying thanks.

The event at Richard House Children’s Hospice highlighted the crucial role they play during Volunteers’ Week (June 1-8), this week.

Over 150 volunteers dedicate their time and support, helping the hospice in a wide range of roles from garden work to photography and supporting with fundraising events.

Founder and life president Anthea Hare hosted a special cream tea on June 6 at the hospice for all volunteers to thank them for supporting the Beckton-based hospice, which supports children with life-limiting and complex health conditions and their families.

Staff at the hospice’s six charity shops in East London and Essex also served cream teas for their volunteers.

Children and young adults who attend the hospice’s film clubs have made a special video to say thank you to the volunteers for their contribution, while every volunteer has received a certificate in recognition of the crucial role they play for the hospice. The video can be viewed on YouTube and on the charity’s Facebook page.

Julia Masters, from Barking, volunteers as a play worker with the Family Support team at Richard House. She was inspired to get involved with the hospice after seeing firsthand the support her family received from an adult when her mother died from cancer in 2007.

She said: “It is the best use of your spare time and so rewarding. Your time is flexible and you soon feel part of a family. The families are amazing and very friendly and grateful as are all the workers at the hospice.”

“I am constantly inspired by the children, their strength and warmth, it is a privilege to spend time with them.”

Richard House CEO Peter Ellis said: “We are very lucky to have so many dedicated volunteers who give their time so generously free of charge. National Volunteers’ Week is a great opportunity for us to recognise and publicly thank them. They make such a difference.”