RUNNING the new Acorns hospice will be no mean feat - with staff working around-the-clock to ensure high-quality care for the children and their families.

More than 40 highly experienced nursing and care staff will work at the hospice alongside a team of 100 volunteers who will help out with everything from ironing to vaccuming, gardening and befriending the children.

Head nurse Angela Mercer, who is responsible for running the centre, said: "I feel privileged to be involved with this fantastic facility.

"I have an excellent team which is very hard-working and committed and are so happy that they are able to provide a service which hopefully will make a real difference to the lives of these children and their families."

Other staff include housekeeper Sally Parsons and chef Martyn Barber who cooks up regular feasts for the children and their families.

Newly-appointed hospice volunteers co-ordinator Katreena Barnes added: "Volunteers will play a vital role helping with the day-to-day running of the hospice and their contribution will make a huge difference to the care and services we're able to provide."

Once appointed, volunteers receive a thorough induction as well as support and training for specific roles. All volunteers are police checked and need to provide references.

To find out more about volunteering at the new Acorns hospice, call Ms Barnes on 01905 767676 or send her an e-mail at katreena.barnes@

acorns.org.uk