Our volunteers

Become a volunteer

Could you spare some time to help the Pear Tree Fund?

We are always happy to hear from people who have some time to spare and would like to volunteer at Dee’s Den or in the Pear Tree Centre.

There are plenty of opportunities available, including serving in the shop, meeting and greeting people arriving at the centre, making cups of tea, offering a listening ear or helping with maintenance or in the gardens.

If you would like to find out more, please get in touch.

Meet some of the generous people who give up their time to help our charity.

Jane Parry

Jane has volunteered at the Pear Tree Centre since it opened, where she meets and greets visitors, offers a listening ear and makes cups of tea.

“I’ve always been interested in volunteering,” said Jane. “I enjoy being given the chance to give something back to the community, and helping people to feel welcome and cared about while they are facing difficult situations. A lot of people have lost loved ones during this time and have been so grateful to be given the chance to come and relax over a cup of tea. You can almost see them sigh with relief as they come through the door.

“I find being able to help people so satisfying. Listening to them and giving them the chance to offload can make a real difference. I’d definitely recommend it to others.”

Mike Hume

Mike is another of our Pear Tree Centre volunteers, who spends time with visitors as well as helping out in the garden.

He said: “I find volunteering really satisfying and rewarding. A lot of people in the later stages of life come to see us, and really appreciate the opportunity for a cup of tea, a chat and some companionship.

“There is a really friendly atmosphere at the Pear Tree Centre. We want people to know that we are here for them and that they can drop in if they need a listening ear.

“I would encourage other people with some spare time to consider volunteering. There are plenty of opportunities available and something for everyone.”

Chrissie Davenport

Chrissy has volunteered at Dee’s Den, our charity shop in Steeple End, Halesworth, for around four years. As well as serving customers, she also helps sort through donations and manage the stock room.

“I get lot from volunteering and missed it an awful lot during lockdown because of the social aspect, as I’ve made so many friends through the Pear Tree Fund,” said Chrissy.

“I enjoy everything I do at Dee’s Den, and have learnt lots of new skills like operating the till, which has helped me to grow in confidence. The team here are fantastic and really friendly, and I also get a lot from meeting the customers.

“I’d urge anyone else who is considering volunteering to go for it – you won’t look back!”

Jo Verrall

Jo started volunteering at the Pear Tree Centre after a long teaching career, and says she thoroughly enjoys her role.

She said: “Volunteering encompasses a variety of skills and activities, and I do everything from helping support the woman's group to talking one-to-one with people. It has been an absolute priviledge and has led to a new emphathy and understanding of other's needs.

"I have made lots of new friends at the centre and feel so supported by the lovely staff. They are caring, passionate and kind.

“Halesworth is so lucky to have the Pear Tree Centre. I love it and volunteer whenever I can!"

Lou Welton

Lou started volunteering with the Pear Tree Fund in August 2024.

Lou said: "I felt ready to offer something back to the community after a difficult few years and was lucky enough to be accepted as a volunteer.

"I've worked in health and social care for more than 12 years and enjoy chatting to clients about what's brought them to us and offering them a friendly, welcoming face when they are in need.

"The support we offer is a lifeline for many and to be part of that is so rewarding."

Brian Withnall

Brian joined the Pear Tree team following the sudden death of his wife in 2023.

He welcomes visitors to the Pear Tree Centre and also helps makes tea and coffee.

Brian said: “I received some excellent bereavement counselling and was invited to join the cooking for one class, where I made some long-term friends. I also benefitted from the journalling course and attended the bereavement group.

"I was looking for a volunteering opportunity and have always been made to feel so welcome."

Rita

A retired nurse and trained bereavement counsellor, Rita has volunteered at the Pear Tree Centre since 2020.

Rita said her background is a great help when talking to people who are affected by a life-limiting illness. She finds her role especially rewarding when she sees first-hand the improvement in the wellbeing of our visitors.

Rita said: "Working with the public makes me happy, and I enjoy sharing that happiness every day."

Juliette Weaver

Juliette joined the Pear Tree Fund in 2024 as community fundraiser and stepped down from that role to focus on volunteering in summer 2025. She was previously fundraising officer for Animal Free Research, a charity based in Hertfordshire, and has also volunteered as social media manager with Rebuilding Lives UK.

“I first heard of the Pear Tree Fund prior to the centre opening in 2020 and have since watched the charity grow from strength to strength,” said Juliette, who has more than 20 years experience in marketing.

“The practical and emotional support provided by the Pear Tree Fund is the heartbeat of our community. I am honoured to be part of a dynamic and passionate team who are making a real difference to the lives of local people.”