This week marks Volunteers Week (1-7 June), a time to celebrate the incredible individuals who dedicate their time to giving back to their communities every day.
To mark the occasion, we’re shining a spotlight on some of our own amazing volunteers, including Shirley, whose dedication to the Round About Café recently led to a very special invitation.
A royal moment to remember
On Wednesday 6 May, Shirley swapped her usual shift at the café in Mansbridge for a trip to Buckingham Palace, after being invited to the King’s first Garden Party of 2026.
But for Shirley, it’s the everyday moments at the café that matter most.
“The café gives me a reason to get out of the house, and it keeps me busy. I live on my own, so it’s lovely to have that routine – and I genuinely look forward to my shifts.”
It’s that quiet commitment, built over years of showing up and creating a welcoming space for others, that led to her being recognised at a special event celebrating people across the country who are making a positive difference in their communities.
Shirley told us she felt honoured to be invited and recognised for her work at the café.
“It was actually the second time I’ve been to the Palace. Back in 2019, the Round About Café volunteers received the Queen’s Award for Volunteering, so it was exciting to go back again.”
Shirley chose to share the day with Nigel, Café Supervisor, who joined her as her guest. For Nigel, it wasn’t just a special day out - it was a chance to see someone he works with recognised for the difference she makes locally.
Nigel said it meant a lot to be part of the day:
“I was touched that Shirley chose me as her guest. It was a very special moment for both of us, and made even more meaningful knowing how much heart and time Shirley has given to our community over the years.”
Familiar face at the heart of the café
The Round About Café is more than just somewhere to grab a drink - it’s a welcoming, friendly space where people come to chat, connect and feel part of something.
That atmosphere doesn’t just happen - it’s created by the people who give their time there, and Shirley has been a big part of that for over a decade.
She told us:
“I started volunteering about 12 years ago, and I’ve not looked back. I first came in as a customer, then I started baking cakes for the café to sell. Before I knew it, I was volunteering behind the counter - and now I’m here three times a week.”
Over time, Shirley’s become a familiar presence for many of the people who walk through the door. She’s someone who helps make the café feel like what it is at its best - a community hub where everyone feels welcome.
Nigel sees that impact first-hand in his role as Café Supervisor, and it’s something he doesn’t take for granted.
“Shirley has a real knack for bringing a smile to our regulars, and that warm, friendly atmosphere is something people really value when they visit. Customers have told us they’ve come in just because of the banter Shirley and I share – some have even nicknamed us ‘Punch and Judy’, a bit of a double act."
The garden party was a chance to take it all in. Surrounded by people making a difference in communities across the country, there was a real sense of shared purpose. Shirley and Nigel only caught a glimpse of the King in the distance - but the day still felt really special, a moment to pause and recognise the value of what people give.
Shirley laughed as she looked back on the day:
“It was a lovely day - although I’ll be honest, the cucumber sandwiches weren’t really for me. I think I’ll stick to our food and cakes at the café – it’s hard to beat!”
What volunteering gives back
Moments like this remind us how important volunteering really is. It’s often the small, consistent acts of kindness and commitment that build stronger communities, and the impact reaches further than people might realise.
But volunteering doesn’t just make a difference in the community. It gives something back too - a sense of routine, connection and purpose. As Shirley shared, having something to look forward to each week can make a real difference to everyday life.
“All in all, it was a fantastic day and a real honour to represent the Round About Café alongside Shirley. Days like this shine a light on the power of volunteering and the impact it has, not just locally but nationally too. I’m incredibly proud to work with such dedicated people — and grateful to have shared this experience together.”
Nigel
Cafe Supervisor
Visit the Round About Café
If you’re nearby, why not drop in to the café for a coffee and a chat? You’ll be met with a warm welcome, a friendly face (quite possibly Shirley’s) and a real sense of what makes this place special. It’s also a great way to see the brilliant work happening there - from the activities on offer to the everyday moments of connection that make such a difference.
- Round About Café, Westfield Corner, Mansbridge, Southampton, Hampshire, SO18 2LE
- Open Monday to Friday, 8am-2pm