Louise from Falmouth is a volunteer in Children’s Hospice South West’s (CHSW) Falmouth Shop that opened in April 2025.
While scrolling through Facebook she came across a social media post calling out for volunteers for the newly opened shop.
“I saw it and just thought… yeah go on then”, said Louise.
That simple, instinctive moment led her to apply online. Not long after, she was invited in for a chat, signed the paperwork, and just like that, became part of the team. A year on, she hasn’t looked back.
“I absolutely love it,” she says.
The staff are so friendly. It’s always busy, there’s so much to do and so much to learn. And the customers are always lovely.
For Louise, the role is more than just a way to spend her time; there’s a personal connection too. A close family friend has a nephew who uses Little Harbour, CHSW’s hospice in St Austell.
“There’s a link there,” she explains. “Just knowing that everything that goes on here is helping people like them… it means a lot.”
I know all the lovely things they offer for my friend, her family and the siblings as well. It’s very emotional when you think about it.
Supporting CHSW is something that’s always been part of Louise’s life. Growing up, her parents would decorate their house with Christmas lights, welcoming visitors who would come to see the display and leave donations for the charity.
“I saw the ad and thought it’s my turn to do something now.”
After running her own restaurant with her husband in Falmouth for 28 years, Louise wasn’t ready to slow down completely when she semi-retired. Having spent decades front of house, she missed connecting with people.
“I still needed that interaction with the public,” she says.
.jpg.png)
Alongside volunteering, she now works at Elemental at Swanpool beach in Falmouth, helping to run children’s barbecues with her husband, often feeding hundreds of hungry families. But volunteering at the shop offers something different.
It’s nice to be here with adults, having that general feel-good chat. It’s good for your mental health.
She especially values the people she volunteers with.
“I love spending time with Dave and Tanya. It’s really relaxed and easy.”
That flexibility is one of the things she cherishes most about volunteering. It fits around life, rather than taking it over.
“You feel involved and part of it, but you’re not completely tied down.”
Tanya, the shop manager, agrees. For her, creating a supportive and flexible environment is key.
“We understand that everyone has a life outside of volunteering,” she says. “Whether that’s Louise going travelling or students needing time to study, we make it work.”
For Louise, what started as a passing moment on social media has become something much more meaningful; a way to give back, stay connected, and be part of something bigger.
Interested in volunteering for CHSW? Click here.