Lee Chittenden, from Southend, has volunteered for Havens Hospices for 25 years, supporting the charity’s trading activities. He recently received the ‘Order of Mercy’ award from The League of Mercy Foundation for his outstanding voluntary service. 

Lee was presented with his award by Lord Lingfield at the prestigious Mansion House in London, the home and office of the Lord Mayor of London, watched by his wife Debbie and a representative from Havens Hospices and many other distinguished guests. 

Lee visits some of the charity’s shops in Shoeburyness, Southend, Southchurch, Rochford, and Leigh-on-Sea each week to appraise the jewellery and antique donations. He sorts through every piece of jewellery, separating the precious metals and valuable jewellery, and takes them to several dealers in London to get the best possible price. Any remaining broken or tangled jewellery is sold at the shops. On average, Lee’s expertise means that the charity raises approximately £350-£650 per month. 

As well as supporting the charity through appraisals, he helps train shop managers on antique markings, supports them in pricing their collectable items, and gives advice on listing items on eBay. 

Speaking about the ceremony, Lee says, “The day was wonderful. It was so professional, and everyone was really friendly. I spoke to lots of different people in the charity sector. It was lovely, from start to finish.” 

Asked how he felt about receiving the award, he said, “If I’m honest, I felt there were more deserving people than me. I was blown away and completely lost for words. It was very humbling. 

“Volunteering for the charity means that I forget about what’s going on in my life—it resets me for the whole week. Over the years, I have formed great relationships with other volunteers and the shop managers. As much as I support them, they have also been there for me throughout my life. The charity shops are like little community hubs – everyone supports each other. 

“It’s wonderful seeing what the shop volunteers find and helping them price the items. Without them, I wouldn’t have this role. I love talking to others and sharing my knowledge. The more I can share my expertise, the more likely it is that they might find something that will help raise more money for the charity.” 

The League of Mercy was founded on the 30th of March 1899 by the Royal Charter of Queen Victoria and was re-founded in 1999 as a UK-registered charity one hundred years after its first establishment. Today the awards are given to those who have given marvellous voluntary service for at least seven years. 

Havens Hospices provides specialist care and support for people of all ages who are living with incurable conditions and their families so they can make every day of their lives count. 

Find out more about the volunteering opportunities available at Havens Hospices at www.havenshospices.org.uk/volunteering. 

Published on 22nd July 2024