Running every year since 1984, the week provides a crucial opportunity to thank volunteers and recognise the value of their time, passion and skills. The campaign highlights the diversity and unity of volunteer work across the UK.
Layla Wilson said: “We will use this time to visit our volunteers in their departments and present thank you certificates and treats to recognise the commitment and contribution our volunteers make to our organisation.
“We will also have information about how to become a volunteer for our visitors and what roles are available etc. We will also be handing out free goodies not only to visitors but staff if needed too – pens, post-its, key rings, car smellies, lunch bags, water bottles and lollies.”
And Layla went on to describe what volunteers mean to our organisation.
She said: “Volunteers bring a richness to organisations across the country. There is no better time to recognise the diversity of our volunteers and celebrate the difference that volunteering makes than during Volunteers’ Week. Without volunteers many charities just simply could not function, with so many people giving up their time and going above and beyond”.
John Purdie - Macmillan volunteer
John Purdie has been volunteering as a Macmillan volunteer for 10 years.
He said: “Having taken early retirement, I decided to give something back to the community and considered the NHS as my first choice.
“I enjoy everything about volunteering with the NHS in the knowledge I can make a difference by helping and supporting people in need.”
And John went on to describe the benefits he has experienced through volunteering.
He said: “The personal reward and feel good factor I experience when assisting people who need help is immense. I never underestimate the difference I can make even though it may be a small thing, however it could well be an immense load taken off the person’s shoulders. To be there for them at their time of need or despair makes the volunteering role worthwhile.”
And John’s advice to anyone who is thinking about volunteering: “I would wholeheartedly recommend volunteering with the NHS or generally to all those who are able and have a few hours a week spare from their respective busy life schedules.
“Don’t hesitate, sign up today, you will be joining a service who will look after you and give you the impetus to help others.
“I would like to add that I have never looked back since I commenced volunteering. There is absolutely no pressure in any of the volunteering roles and the rewards you experience by helping people are immense. It is true saying ‘Never underestimate the big importance of small things’ It means so much to those who find themselves in emotional turmoil for various personal circumstances and to be there at their time of need and sit alongside them can prove so supportive at a time when they are desperate for that listening ear or hand to hold.
“I personally have experienced this so many times throughout the years I have been volunteering and each time is as rewarding as the previous one.”
June and Malcolm Cavanagh
June has had a number of volunteer roles over the last 25 years including helping in Palliative care and PALS.
For the last few years both June and Malcolm been involved with Meet and Greet, Pre- Assessment and 15 steps.
They are both very highly regarded by the Voluntary Services Team and many members of staff and volunteers.
Pre-assessment nurse Fiona Mclean said: “June and Malcolm are so helpful in our pre- assessment unit. They help patients complete the online pre-assessment documents saving nursing time and this means our patient clinic slots are freed up to see patients rather than complete questions that should be completed at home, prior to appointments.
“They are both very approachable, kind, flexible, understanding and compassionate with good communication skills and the patients always speak highly of them.”
If you would like to volunteer you can see the current volunteering vacancies on our website or contact: Volunteering@ncic.nhs.uk