Meet a volunteer...Tim

I started volunteering at Milward House in the 1980s. It was just an annual visit in the early days, and the frequency increased over time. It was only when I retired from my pastoral work at Pembury Road Baptist Chapel in Tonbridge, Kent, that the visits became monthly. My aunt, my mother’s twin sister, had moved to live at the home in previous years, so I already had a family connection there.

I always prepare before I arrive at Milward House. Devotions follow a regular pattern: prayer, a hymn, a Bible reading, usually read together, followed by a short talk based on the Bible passage, another hymn, and then we usually say the Grace together. Alongside this, I enjoy chatting with people, seeing how they are, and offering support or a kind word. On the surface it may seem like just a devotion service, but it is really about being present and sharing encouragement and faith. Often, it is the simplest moments that stay with me most, a smile during a hymn, a hand held during prayer, or a quiet conversation about memories from their past. Those moments feel especially meaningful.

Some of my most special moments have been deeply personal. My mother-in-law lived at Milward House for several years, and it was wonderful to see her there while also serving others. Another family member I knew, Shirley, ended up in the same room my mother-in-law had occupied – it was such a lovely coincidence. One moment I’ll never forget was praying with a relative at the bedside of their dying mother. They asked me to take the funeral afterward, which was a real privilege, even though I hadn’t known her for very long. I’ve also had joy in the smaller, lighter moments, like singing hymns with people who hadn’t sung in years or simply sharing a cup of tea and a chat. It’s those little things that make volunteering so rewarding. Experiences like that remind me why I keep coming back.

I love volunteering at Milward House because it allows me to share my faith. Speaking about the Lord Jesus and encouraging people to cling to Him is at the heart of what I do. The gospel is always relevant, no matter your age, and seeing the joy and comfort it brings others inspires me in my own life. Volunteering keeps me connected, gives me purpose, and brings me a sense of wellbeing. It also helps me stay active, meet new people, and reflect on what matters most in life.