26 Sep 2025 Community

Damien’s volunteering story with The Kirkwood

When Damien Heart first walked through the doors at Sands Mill, he wasn't entirely sure what to expect.

With a little spare time on his hands, he wanted to see if there was a way he could contribute to his community. Just a few months later, he has not only found a new routine, but also a deep sense of fulfilment from supporting The Kirkwood.

On volunteering with The Kirkwood's eBay department he said: "I had some spare time on my hands, so I decided to come and see what was going on at Sands Mill and whether I could be of some help." Damien explains: "From the start I've really enjoyed my time here and felt like I've been able to contribute in a meaningful way."

Damien's role has been varied, but much of his time is spent sorting and listing DVDs and CDs, tasks that play an important part in The Kirkwood's work. He's also had the chance to learn new skills, including using AI to help with listing items for sale.

He said: "Most of my time has been spent working with DVDs and CDs, but I've also been helping with listings for the printers, which has introduced me to new tools like AI. There's been a lot to learn, but I've really enjoyed taking on something different and challenging myself with new skills."

At first glance, sorting DVDs might seem like a simple job. But Damien has quickly come to understand the bigger picture. Every item sold in The Kirkwood's shops or online helps fund care for patients and their families.

Damien explained: "It might seem like only a small part of a much bigger process, but every single DVD or CD that gets listed and sold helps to make such a difference in people's lives. Knowing that makes the work feel really worthwhile, because even the little things add up to something so important."

Through volunteering, Damien has also discovered just how vital The Kirkwood's services are within the local community. He said: "I hadn't fully realised how central The Kirkwood is to providing this kind of care in Kirklees until I became involved. The NHS does rely on the support The Kirkwood gives, but we as a charity are only provided a small amount of funding. Understanding just how many different services The Kirkwood offers whether at the hospice or out in the community makes you see how valuable their work is in supporting life."

For Damien, volunteering has been both rewarding and eye opening, and he hopes others will consider giving it a try: "If anybody is thinking about volunteering, I'd say give it a go. Come and see what we do, and see where you might be able to help out. There are so many different departments and roles, especially here at Sands Mill, so there's bound to be something that suits you. It's definitely worth getting involved."

Damien's story shows that every volunteer, no matter what task they take on, plays a vital role in helping The Kirkwood care for people in their greatest time of need.

Would you like to get involved and volunteer for our charity just like Damien? If so click the link HERE.