Spotlight focuses on volunteers

AN army of volunteers who provide vital support for patients at the Royal Oldham Hospital have earned a big thank-you from health bosses.

The accolade to the 800 volunteers who give their time freely to help out at the four hospitals run by Pennine Acute Trust, marked the end of National Volunteers’ Week.

Health bosses paid tribute to their dedication, hard work and commitment in helping out with everything from hospital radio and manning receptions to running shops and cafes, helping on wards, and offering spiritual support.

Volunteers give the four hospitals, which include the Royal Oldham, more than 125,000 hours of unpaid support each year.

They include those who volunteer as individuals, and others who offer their services through organisations such as the Women’s Royal Voluntary Service (WRVS), church groups, the League of Friends, schools and colleges.

The trust’s multi-faith chaplaincy team also enlists the support of more than 100 volunteers to meet the spiritual needs of patients, relatives and staff.

Trust chairman John Jesky said: “Volunteers are an essential part of the hospital team and their good-will and dedication allows us to complement the service that staff provide.”

Mary Sunderland, volunteer co-ordinator, added: “It’s really amazing just how much support our volunteers provide.

“They really do have a positive impact on the experience patients have when they come to hospital.

“We would like to thank each and every volunteer.”