Life of A Volunteer - Bringing A Little Sheannigans To The Shift

Hello, my name is Sheannigans, well my Lollipop name that is and being a Radio Lollipop volunteer means a lot to me because it's a place where I can have fun and hopefully make a difference to everyone in the hospital.

I originally chose to volunteer because I really liked singing and I wanted to find a way to combine my passion for singing with children, because I also love children. I did a web search for opportunities like that and found Radio Lollipop. From the very first session, I felt welcomed by the other volunteers. Everyone was really friendly, and it was clear straight away that they cared a lot about what they do. Now, I still volunteer for those reasons, but it's also become a way for me to destress. When I'm on the wards, I'm not thinking about anything else, just playing and having fun. I really enjoy going up because it gives me a break from everyday life, and I can just focus on being present in that moment. I really like to play, and Radio Lollipop gives me the chance to do that while also helping children have fun too.

One of the things I love most is seeing how happy the children can be just from having someone there purely for entertainment. Sometimes the simplest activities, like playing a quick game or singing a silly song, can make the biggest difference. One time I went up on the wards and the child didn't seem very interested in having us there at first. But once we started playing, they became really happy and engaged. Their mum told us that every time someone usually came into the room it was to give injections or do a check-up, and nobody came just to play. That really stuck with me, because it made me realise how important our role is. We're there just to bring joy, and sometimes that's exactly what is needed. Another really special moment for me was when we let a child draw. When we asked who the stick figure they drew was, they pointed to me. I was surprised and happy, because it showed that even in a short amount of time, I had made enough of an impact for them to include me in their drawing. It was such a simple thing, but it meant a lot to me.

Another big reason I enjoy volunteering is because of the other volunteers. Everyone is really funny and talented in their own way, and I always enjoy going on shifts with them. Whether it’s someone singing, telling jokes, or just being silly with the children, they all bring something special, and it's clear how much they care about making each visit as good as it can be.

I keep volunteering because it's genuinely fun for me, and because I hope it brings smiles to every child and parent we see, and to the other volunteers too.

Overall, being a Radio Lollipop volunteer means being able to combine the things I love, singing, playing, and being with children, into something that feels meaningful and joyful. It’s a place where I can destress, have fun, and hopefully make a positive difference at the same time, and that’s why I keep coming back.