Volunteers from Dorset County Hospital (DCH) were treated to a summer tea party as a thank you for their hard work.
More than 50 volunteers gathered at Sunninghill Preparatory School in Dorchester for an afternoon of fun and games, plus sandwiches, cakes and refreshments by Dorset Delights.
Chairman of Dorset County Hospital Mark Addison and Chief Nursing Officer Nicky Lucey also attended and presented service recognition certificates to those who have completed between three- and 25-years of service.
Nicky Lucey, Chief Nursing Officer at Dorset County Hospital, said: “We were delighted that so many of our volunteers were able to join us at this event and enjoy some afternoon treats. They are a truly wonderful group of people who give up their time to help our patients, staff and visitors. From helping people find their way around the hospital to playing a game of dominoes with patients in day rooms, they are a vital part of Team DCH and I don’t know what we would do without them.”
Among those receiving certificates were Ruth Bell for 20 years of service with the Friends of Dorset County Hospital and our longest serving volunteer, Wendy Lake, for 25 years of service.
Hannah Robinson, Volunteer and Patient Experience Lead at Dorset County Hospital, said: “We are so grateful for our volunteers and all that they do. It was so lovely to provide them with an afternoon of fun, games and delicious treats, while taking the time to recognise and celebrate the amazing work they do.”
Volunteers at DCH provide support throughout the hospital. They come from a variety of backgrounds and the experience and skills they bring to the hospital are greatly valued. Hannah added:
“Our volunteers come from a variety of backgrounds and the experience and skills they bring to the hospital are greatly valued. There are a variety of roles available, and we’re committed to supporting our volunteers and making sure they enjoy their time with us. If anyone is interested in joining Team DCH as a volunteer, then please get in touch.”
To find out more about volunteering please email volunteering@dchft.nhs.uk or call 01305 255351.
Wendy Lake, our longest-serving volunteer with 25 years’ service. From left: Ali Male, Patient Experience Lead, Wendy Lake, Chief Nursing Officer Nicky Lucey and Volunteer Co-ordinator Louisa Plant.
Ruth Bell, with 20 years’ service. From left: Ali Male, Patient Experience Lead, Ruth Bell, Chief Nursing Officer Nicky Lucey and Volunteer Co-ordinator Louisa Plant.
A photo of all the volunteers enjoying their afternoon tea