Two volunteers have praised the work of a “very special” day centre caring for people with dementia.

Sheila Gornall and her colleague Jean both support Chalmers Court specialist day centre in Croxley Green via Age UK Hertfordshire.

Sheila has been volunteering for six months; Jean for the last two years. Both women complimented the friendly environment they discovered when they first joined.

Sheila, 54, said: “Honestly, the moment I walked through the door everyone was so friendly. I’ve gone from coming in for a few hours to spending a whole day here each week.”

Her background is in nursing, but her volunteer role is non-medical and more about supporting the staff.

“I make cups of tea, I chat with the clients - whatever is needed,” she said.

Jean, who is 62 and retired from working in finance, said this work is quite different from her previous job. “That was much more analytical. This is about chatting and helping with arts and crafts, so I was out of my comfort zone at first. But now I love it,” she said.

She added: “I love knowing I’ve helped. The feeling that I have done something useful, and that this is something that could have been done for my parents. It’s my way of giving back and people are so appreciative.”

Sheila, who is semi-retired, said she volunteered because she “wanted company” and to be part of a team.

She added: “There’s never a dull moment. We’re always doing something, singing, arts and crafts, music as well as all sorts of events and days out.”

Jean added: “It’s a very special scheme, with very special clients.” Both women suggested anyone interested in volunteering for Age UK should give it a try.

Project manager Senga Lees said: “They’re both fantastic. All our volunteers are so important to us.

“The staff really appreciate having them in to help.”

To volunteer for Age UK Hertfordshire contact Volunteering@ageukherts.org.uk or call 01707 38606