Volunteers thanked for help and dedication

Over 150 volunteers from Rochdale and Oldham who volunteer within the Pennine Acute Trust have been thanked at a celebration event at Chadderton Town Hall.

The Mayor of Rochdale, Councillor Alan Godson and the Mayor of Oldham Councillor Richard Knowles met the volunteers, who offer their support in a variety of ways, including manning the hospital radio, staffing receptions, running shops and cafes and helping on wards.

In addition to individual volunteers, many volunteers come through organisations such as church groups, schools and colleges.

The Trust’s multi-faith chaplaincy team also enlist the support of over 100 volunteers who meet the spiritual needs of patients, relatives and staff.

Trust Chairman John Jesky, said: “We truly are privileged to have so many people offering their support.

“Their goodwill and dedication allows us to complement the services that our staff provide, and enables us to provide the extras that are so important to patients whilst they are in our care.

“I would like to publicly thank all our volunteers.”

Anne-Marie Stephens, who is a volunteer based on the Floyd rehabilitation unit at Birch Hill Hospital said: “I initially started volunteering to gain experience in the care sector, but now find it a fulfilling thing to do, giving something back to the community.

“The celebration event was really interesting. It was great to find out what other volunteers have been doing and it was nice to meet other volunteers and share their experiences, particularly as I am a lone volunteer. I came away feeling appreciated.”