Malika Augustin: My Volunteering Journey at Saint Francis Hospice

Malika Augustin, 19, has been volunteering on the ward at Saint Francis Hospice every Monday afternoon since June 2025. Alongside volunteering, Malika is currently studying A levels in Biology, Chemistry and Economics at Sixth Form and has applied to study Medicine at King’s College London, Plymouth, Glasgow and Southampton.

I originally began volunteering to gain hands-on experience for a future career in medicine after being encouraged by one of my teachers. Since starting at the hospice, I have balanced my studies alongside my volunteering commitments and what began as practical experience has become something incredibly meaningful to me. 

As a ward volunteer, I help with a wide range of tasks including delivering fresh water, hot drinks and snacks, taking dinner orders and helping clear away after lunch. However, volunteering has shown me that healthcare is about so much more than practical tasks. One of the most important things I have learned is the value of communication and human connection.

Speaking with individuals under the hospice’s care, listening to their stories and supporting them during difficult moments has helped me develop confidence, empathy and understanding. I have realised how much small gestures can mean, a smile, a friendly conversation or simply taking the time to ask someone how they are feeling can make a real difference. Sometimes individuals find it easier to speak openly with someone outside of their family and I have learned how important it is to carefully read the mood of each person and adapt my approach to offer companionship, conversation or quiet support when needed.

When I first started volunteering, I was nervous as hospices are often associated with end-of-life care and I did not know what to expect. At 19, I knew it was an environment many people my age might find intimidating. Despite this, I wanted to step outside of my comfort zone and support people in a setting that requires compassion, patience and sensitivity. 

My experience at Saint Francis Hospice has completely changed my perspective. I have seen first-hand that the hospice is focused on helping people live as well as possible, with dignity, care and support. Volunteering here has helped me grow both personally and professionally and it has taught me resilience, maturity and the importance of making a positive difference to others.

Through volunteering, I have developed confidence, communication skills and empathy. I have learned how healthcare teams work together to support individuals and their loved ones, while gaining valuable transferable skills that I know will stay with me throughout my future career in medicine.

Volunteering at Saint Francis Hospice has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life so far and I hope my story encourages other young people to step outside of their comfort zones and consider volunteering in their community.