Diane steps up for The Great Leeds Walk after finding a community through volunteering
As Volunteers’ Week begins, Sue Ryder Wheatfields Hospice is celebrating the people who give their time to support its care, including Diane Naylor, 59, from Leeds, who is now taking on The Great Leeds Walk this July to raise money for the hospice.
Diane first connected with Sue Ryder Wheatfields Hospice through her workplace in Horsforth, where she had been exploring ways the business could support local charities.
“I got in touch with Sue Ryder Wheatfields Hospice who were really encouraging, and when I helped with a Christmas bucket collection I met some lovely volunteers who told me there was a local group in Morley. I don’t drive, so finding something nearby felt perfect.”
Having previously volunteered with Brownies for 25 years, Diane said getting involved with volunteering again felt natural.
“I think if you can help in some way, you should. It’s important to support where you can.”
After joining the volunteer group, Diane spotted the leaflet for The Great Leeds Walk, and immediately knew it was the right challenge for her and her friend Lisa.
“When I saw the event I thought, ‘Yes, this is definitely something we could do.’ I always try to raise money each year if I can.”
Diane is now training with Lisa and plans to take on one of the longer routes, between 18 and 25 miles.
She’s also been busy fundraising at work, where she has helped set up a charity group supporting six employee‑nominated causes this year, including Sue Ryder Wheatfields Hospice.
Diane said: “The camaraderie is lovely, planning events, thinking of new ideas, working together. It’s just nice to all be able to do something positive.”
Anna Murphy, Regional Fundraising Team Leader at Sue Ryder Wheatfields Hospice, said: “Volunteers like Diane are at the heart of everything we do.
"We’re so grateful for her support, and we’d love others to join her at The Great Leeds Walk this summer!”
There is still time to sign up for The Great Leeds Walk, taking place on Saturday July 11, with 10‑mile, 18‑mile and 25‑mile routes available. Register at: sueryder.org/greatleedswalk