Celebrating National Recognition for Volunteer Excellence

Galway and Mayo Hospices Awarded Investing in Volunteers Quality Standard

The Galway and Mayo Hospices are proud to announce that they have achieved the prestigious Investing in Volunteers (IiV) quality standard — the national benchmark that recognises best practice in volunteer management in Ireland and the UK.

This is the first time our volunteer programme has been externally assessed, with Galway and Mayo Hospices being among the few hospices to hold this accreditation — and the first in the west of Ireland to receive this excellence award. This recognition is a powerful affirmation of the value we place on volunteering and the outstanding contribution our volunteers make every day.

Caoimhe Donohue, Volunteer Co-ordinator at Galway Hospice, described the accreditation as “a ringing endorsement of the efforts of staff across Galway and Mayo Hospices, making it a safe and rewarding place to volunteer.” She added, “The report has also identified several areas of outstanding practice — we couldn’t be happier!”

A Rigorous Assessment of Excellence

The standard was awarded following a comprehensive and independent assessment process, reflecting the commitment of our staff, volunteers, and leadership team to creating a welcoming, inclusive, and high-quality volunteering experience.

The assessment team praised the integrated and strategic approach to volunteering across both sites, where volunteers are seen as “the link to the community for the patients” and “the backbone” of the service. The report also highlighted the positive impact of volunteers in enhancing quality of life for both patients and families.

A staff member echoed this sentiment, sharing: “We couldn’t do what we do without the volunteer team. Every moment matters. They provide one-to-one contact, giving their time, professionalism, and maturity — they continuously smile, and that makes the patients smile.”

Both hospices met all six quality standards, with several areas of outstanding practice highlighted. These standards cover key areas such as creating an inclusive environment, recruiting and welcoming volunteers, providing ongoing support, recognising contributions, encouraging personal development, and ensuring a positive overall experience.

A Word from Our Volunteer Co-ordinator

“Achieving this accreditation is a testament to the dedication and compassion of our incredible volunteers. Their generosity of time, kindness, and support is at the heart of everything we do, and this recognition celebrates the vital role they play.”

– Caoimhe Donohue, Galway Hospice Volunteer Co-ordinator

Celebrating During National Volunteering Week

As we mark National Volunteering Week, this recognition is especially meaningful. It’s a time to honour the people who give their time, compassion, and care to help make every moment matter for our patients and families.

Mary Nash, Chief Executive, Chairperson Jim Browne, and staff members reflected on the unique role of our volunteers: “They have a wealth of knowledge and life experiences; they come with a smile every day,” one said. “They are a force to be reckoned with. Hospice wouldn’t be Hospice without them. They normalise patients’ lives. The patients and families have a friendly face — someone to sit and have a chat with.”

We are deeply grateful to each volunteer who shares their time so selflessly — and we remain committed to building on this success.

Looking Ahead: Expanding and Evolving Volunteer Roles

Looking ahead, we are committed to building on this success. Future plans include expanding volunteer roles across new services, enhancing feedback opportunities, and recognising volunteer contributions in even more visible and meaningful ways.

Another Proud Milestone: Galway City Council Award

This announcement follows another proud milestone: Galway Hospice recently received the Galway City Council Volunteer of the Year Award, a public recognition of the vital role our volunteers play in the wider community. You can read more about that honour here.

Thank You to Our Volunteers

From driving patients, supporting reception, assisting in Day Care, to offering companionship (and many other roles) and kindness in countless ways, volunteers are central to the delivery of our services.

Volunteers themselves describe their experience with heartfelt warmth. “It’s the best day of the week for me — I always come away happy,” said one. Another shared, “The smiles from the patients make it all worthwhile.” The sense of belonging is clear, too: “I’ve never been so well looked after. We’re treated like part of the team from day one.” And for many, the hospice becomes a second home: “The atmosphere is so uplifting — everyone calls you by your first name. It’s like a big family.”

To every volunteer who brings warmth, kindness, and commitment — this award is yours. Thank you for making a difference in the lives of so many.