NHS volunteers celebrated at special awards event

Around 200 volunteers who support patients, visitors and staff across Northumbria Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust were celebrated at a special awards evening hosted by Bright Northumbria Healthcare Charity.

Held at the Grand Hotel in Gosforth, the annual event brought together volunteers from across the trust to recognise their dedication, commitment and the invaluable difference they make every day.

Bright volunteers support services across Northumbria Healthcare’s hospitals, carrying out a wide range of roles including welcoming visitors through meet and greet services, assisting patients as befrienders, operating volunteer cafés and providing transport through buggy services.

The evening gave volunteers an opportunity to relax, socialise and celebrate their achievements with fellow volunteers over dinner, followed by music and dancing.

A highlight of the event was the presentation of Long Service Awards, recognising volunteers who have devoted between five and 30 years of service to supporting local NHS services.

Keith, who volunteers at Blyth Community Hospital, said: “What a lovely night my wife Christine and I had. It was our wedding anniversary the day before, so it was an extra celebration. We won afternoon tea for two in a raffle, so we can have another great evening.

“As always, it was good to see everyone all together. It made me feel proud to be one of the many cogs in the service.”

Jo Armstrong, Grants, Delivery and Impact Officer at Bright said: “Our volunteers play an important role in creating welcoming, supportive environments across our hospitals. They give their time so generously and bring kindness, compassion and reassurance to patients, visitors and staff every day.

“This evening was about recognising their outstanding contribution and thanking them for everything they do. We are incredibly proud of every one of our volunteers and the difference they make to our NHS services and local communities.”

Bright Northumbria Healthcare Charity supports hundreds of volunteers across the trust, helping to enhance patient and staff experiences through a wide range of services and initiatives.

The annual celebration forms part of the charity’s ongoing commitment to recognising and supporting the volunteers whose time, enthusiasm and compassion help bring a little extra brightness to hospitals and communities throughout Northumberland and North Tyneside.

Anyone interested in becoming a volunteer can find out more at: https://bright.northumbria.nhs.uk/support-us/volunteer/

For further information, contact the Volunteer Services Team:

• Email: volunteers@northumbria.nhs.uk
• Phone: 0191 203 1354