The Mayor of Poole presents first Volunteer Recognition Awards
The Worshipful Mayor of Poole, Councillor Joyce Lavender, congratulates Margaret Rostron on 49 years of volunteering at Poole Hospital.
Poole Hospital took the opportunity of the 60th anniversary of the NHS this year and Volunteers’ Week 2008 (1 to 7 June) to launch a new scheme aimed at recognising the work of its volunteers.
New long service badges were presented to all volunteers who have worked with the hospital for more than five, 10, 15 and 20 years at a celebration event on 3 June. The longest serving volunteer was Margaret Rostron, a former school teacher from Poole, who has worked with the Chaplaincy Team for 49 years.
The badges and special thank you cards were presented by the Worshipful Mayor of Poole, Councillor Joyce Lavender, who joined volunteers and staff for a special tea to celebrate the work of volunteers.
Poole Hospital is fortunate to have more than 300 volunteers, many of whom have supported us for a number of years. Volunteers play a valuable role across the hospital and can do from two hours a week to as many hours as they can spare. The hours and duties are adapted to fit in with the lives and the interests of the volunteer, with some working during the days and some in the evenings or weekends.
People volunteer at Poole Hospital for different reasons. For some it is a way of getting back into work after a period of time. Some are still at school and volunteer because they are interested in working in a healthcare in the future, while others are working towards their Duke of Edinburgh Awards. Former patients also volunteer as they feel that they want to give something back to the hospital after their treatment.
Sue Sutherland, Chief Executive, said: ‘Our volunteers are an incredibly valuable asset to Poole Hospital. Whether directing visitors, serving refreshments on the wards, organising paperwork or simply offering a friendly ear to a patient, their help makes a very real difference. We would like to take this opportunity during NHS60 and Volunteers’ Week to recognise their support and say thank you very much.’
We welcome enquiries from anyone who would like to be a volunteer at Poole Hospital. If you are interested, please contact the Joy Janati, Volunteer Co-ordinator on 01202 448610 or e-mail on joy.janati@poole.nhs.uk.
Date: 10 June 2008