Working life with Lorna Collins

Lorna Collins is volunteer co-ordinator with LauraLynn

6.30am

I have an early start for my commute by Dart and bus that takes me across Dublin to Leopardstown. LauraLynn Ireland’s Children’s Hospice provides respite, transitional, crisis and end of life care for children with life-limiting conditions.

My role is to manage the recruitment, registration, training, assignment, communication and recognition of our 120 volunteers.

9.15am

As part of the HR team, I participate in the daily stand-up meeting where we share plans for the day. On Decorating Days, I could have a group of 10 to 20 volunteers on site from one of our corporate sponsors. LauraLynn tries to celebrate every festive occasion and all windows are painted with a theme that enhances the atmosphere. Volunteers are armed with paint brushes, paint, decorations and are encouraged to be as creative as possible. After a briefing, the volunteers are divided into teams to decorate feature windows. I look after them throughout the day as they create their masterpieces.

9.30am

I link in with the play specialist to see if extra support is needed for any planned activities or special requests. The team tries to plan appropriate activities that will benefit the children staying with us each week. Whether it’s a request for a football match, story time or princess party, I then recruit from our pool of skilled volunteers. Many of our volunteers are happy to wear character costumes.

1.30pm

I have lunch in our restaurant.

LauraLynn is participating in Operation Transformation so the menu is full of tasty healthy options.

2pm

I meet transition year students who volunteer with us as part of their Gaisce Award. They complete a variety of tasks; creating props for interactive stories, administration and some days they assist with activities with the children in the hospice,taking their cue from our play specialist.

3pm

Admin is a big part of my role. Afternoons are spent processing volunteer applications, transport requests, answering emails, returning calls and programme development. The volunteer programme is relatively new so we are constantly looking for new opportunities and innovative ways to support our children and families.

5pm

I head home, unless I am meeting a volunteer on the evening shift. For downtime, I like to catch up with a boxset or get out for a bit of fresh air.