If you're looking for a meaningful way to give back, our volunteers have a clear message: volunteering with Tenovus Cancer Care is an experience they'd recommend to almost everyone.
Our latest Volunteer Survey found that 99% of respondents would recommend volunteering with Tenovus Cancer Care, while 94% said they are satisfied with their volunteering experience. The results highlight the welcoming community, sense of purpose and lasting friendships that make volunteering with us so special.
The survey, carried out in January 2026, received 222 responses – almost double the number from our previous survey in 2023 – giving us valuable insight into the experiences of volunteers across the charity.
For many volunteers, it's about much more than giving their time. It's about feeling part of something bigger.
Volunteers told us they enjoy meeting new people, making friends and being part of supportive teams. Many described their roles as fun and rewarding, while one volunteer said volunteering had "become a big part of my life – I look forward to it every week." Others simply said they "love it" and would encourage anyone with a little spare time to get involved.
That enthusiasm is reflected in the dedication of our volunteers. Nearly half (44%) of respondents have volunteered with Tenovus Cancer Care for more than five years, and almost nine in ten volunteer every week. Whether they're welcoming customers into one of our shops, supporting fundraising events or helping behind the scenes, their time and commitment make a real difference to people affected by cancer.
Our shop volunteers made up the majority of survey respondents, and many took the opportunity to recognise the support they receive from their shop managers. Words including "amazing", "supportive", "friendly" and "understanding" featured throughout the feedback, with volunteers saying they feel valued and appreciated as part of their teams.
Listening to our volunteers is incredibly important to us, and while the survey results are overwhelmingly positive, volunteers also shared ideas for how we can make the experience even better. Over the coming year we'll continue to strengthen communication, improve volunteer support and recognition, and make sure everyone knows how to access help and guidance whenever they need it.
The survey also highlighted opportunities to make our volunteer community even more diverse. We'll continue working with community organisations and colleagues across the charity to encourage younger people, men and people from underrepresented communities to explore the many volunteer opportunities available at Tenovus Cancer Care.
We're incredibly grateful to every volunteer who took the time to complete the survey and, most importantly, to everyone who gives their time so generously throughout the year.
Whether you're looking to meet new people, develop new skills, boost your confidence or simply make a difference, volunteering with Tenovus Cancer Care offers the chance to be part of a supportive community while helping people affected by cancer. We couldn't do what we do without our volunteers – and we're proud that so many of them would recommend joining our team.