HUNDREDS of people have quietly given up their time to help homelessness charity ALABARÉ change lives – clocking up almost 19,000 hours in a year.

ALABARÉ has revealed its 180 volunteers contributed the equivalent of 51 hours of support every single day over the last 12 months.

The army of volunteers support the charity in countless ways, from working in charity shops and drop-in centres to helping at supported accommodation, wellbeing activities and development centres.

The figures were released during Volunteers Week (June 1 to 7) with ALABARÉ hosting a special tea party at its Riverside Sanctuary in Salisbury to thank those who give their time to help break the cycle of homelessness.

A collage of ALABARÉ volunteers.

Among them was John Broadley, who has volunteered as a chaplain since 2018 and, at nearly 90-years-old, said he has no intention of slowing down.

Also celebrated was Phil Rood, a military veteran who began volunteering with ALABARÉ’s Boots on the Ground wellbeing programme for veterans four years ago.

His dedication earned him a Bronze award at the English Veterans Awards 2025.

“As a veteran myself, I wanted to stay within the veteran community,” Phil said.

“But I get a sense of satisfaction, a sense of pride, and I just like giving back to people; I get a buzz out of it.”

Phil Rood (left) receives his award.

He added that something as simple as sharing a cup of tea and a chat can make “a massive difference” to someone struggling.

ALABARÉ’s senior chaplain and wellbeing and inclusion lead Gill Turner-Callis said volunteers are at the heart of the charity’s work.

“Our staff are focused on the day-to-day support for clients, but the volunteers can offer so much more in terms of wellbeing and meaningful activities,” she added.

Volunteering opportunities are available across ALABARÉ’s services with roles to suit a wide range of interests and experience.