They may not shout about it but 322 local people regularly and quietly volunteer at Yeovil Hospital, and the staff would like to use the opportunity of National Volunteer Week (1-7 June) to say a big thank you to each and every one.
Each of the volunteers has a story, a reason they want to help, and their invaluable support allows us to go that extra mile. Bob Norbury was inspired to join the team after he had a stroke and was cared for within the hospital. His tireless campaigning and support of the stroke team and stroke patients on the ward is just one of the many examples of this. Another is Sue Finer, a former nurse who cared for her husband Peter for ten years after he was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s at the age of 50. Her life experience has driven her to volunteer and fundraise here in Yeovil Hospital.
Head of Customer Experience Militsa Pribetich-Gill said: “When it comes to volunteering, no matter how much or little you can give, every hour counts. Our dedicated team of volunteers gives more than 50,000 hours a year of their time to enhance the experience our patients receive. Whether it be welcoming patients and their visitors, helping in the main reception shop or ED coffee shop, Radio Camelot, the Freewheelers, the Samaritans, or in one of the many departments in Yeovil Hospital, you will find one of these amazing people making an incredible difference to patients, their relatives and friends, as well as our staff.
“In such busy times, time is a rare commodity and our volunteers offer us the greatest gift of all, alongside their kindness, generosity, empathy and care.”
Volunteers come in all ages, shapes and sizes including our furry helpers, the Pets As Therapy (PAT) animals who regularly make a big impression on patients and staff as they visit the wards.
Do you want to make a difference too? With jobs ranging through a whole spectrum of interests, whether it be inside, outside, patient-facing or behind the scenes, there is something for everyone, no matter what your age. Just e-mail volunteers@ydh.nhs.uk to find out more.
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This post was written by Communications Team
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