AFTER first volunteering in a local library as a late teen, it has remained a constant in Carole Gibbard’s life for decades.

Most recently, Carole has used the skills honed throughout a successful career in training and development and management consultancy after joining the board of trustees at Barnsley Hospice in 2013, becoming chair of the board three years later.

Having previously undertaken the role as Executive Chair at a hospice local to her roots in the north-west, Carole has volunteered in the hospice sector for more than 25 years.

When Carole and her husband decided to make the move to Barnsley, where one of their sons had settled, she began her voluntary role as a trustee for Barnsley Hospice.

Carole’s relocation to Barnsley was driven in no small part by the wonderful local people she had met when visiting her son, so volunteering in a capacity that would support the local community was an easy decision.

Just like her move to Barnsley, when Carole joined Barnsley Hospice, she felt at home immediately and has never looked back.

Throughout the past 12 years, Carole’s time as a trustee has consisted of remarkable highs as well as some challenging times, but her commitment to the hospice has never wavered.

Perhaps most notably, supporting the hospice to achieve a CQC rating of outstanding in January 2023 was a moment she will never forget.

Many do not realise the role of the chair of the board of trustees is voluntary, far exceeding the hours spent at board meetings and sub-committees.

In her role, Carole gave everything to the hospice and was always on hand to offer guidance, mentorship and training to members of the Board going above and beyond to ensure the hospice was serving the people of Barnsley and delivering the outstanding care it provides.

Carole had set an initial retirement date of January 2025, however upon being asked to extend her affiliation with Barnsley Hospice as the organisation was set for a planned period of transition, Carole willingly accepted the invitation, which was a true indication of her loyalty and commitment to ensuring of the very best for Barnsley Hospice and those it serves.

Barnsley Hospice has nominated Carole for a Proud of Barnsley award in the Volunteer of the Year category.

A hospice spokesperson said: “In June 2025, Carole finally retired, bringing an end to her 12 years of dedication, expertise and commitment, the highlight of which was helping to steer the hospice to ‘outstanding’ status, making her a truly outstanding volunteer.

“Our thanks go to Carole for her incredible contribution and leadership over the last 12 years, making her a worthy winner of the volunteer of the year award.”

Carole said: “I feel really proud to be nominated, it’s lovely.

“I miss the hospice greatly but it was a great experience and I’m really enjoying a rest since my retirement.”