International Men’s Day is a global celebration that acknowledges and celebrates the achievements of men.
The Acting Chairman of the South Eastern Trust, Jonathan Patton, marked the day by hosting an event to thank and recognise our male volunteers for the vital and varied work that they do.
Within the Trust, 18% of our Volunteer workforce are male and we would like to encourage more men to consider becoming a Volunteer within the Trust. There are many roles available such as a “Meeter & Greeter”, those that welcome our patients and visitors when they visit our hospitals; Volunteer Drivers who transport our patients to and from appointments and deliver equipment, fresh laundry and medication to patients at home; Activity Volunteers who support staff to deliver activities to service users in Training & Resource Centres and Volunteer Befrienders who help to lift the spirits of our patients in our hospitals and in the community.
Highlighting the importance of marking International Men’s Day, Jonathan Patton said, “The day is an opportunity to celebrate the positive values men bring to the world, their families and communities and to highlight role models across our Trust such as our male Volunteers. It is also an opportunity to make a positive difference and help raise awareness of men’s health and wellbeing.”
Commenting on the valuable role our male volunteers play, Volunteer Services Manager, Sonya Duffy added, “It is important to have strong role models in our community to show the importance of being caring and kind. Volunteering really is suitable for everyone and our male Volunteers tell us they really enjoy what they do. We love having them as part of the South Eastern Trust Volunteering Team.”
Mark Stinson, who volunteers in the Emergency Department in the Ulster Hospital said “I enjoy my volunteering role in the Emergency Department. it provides me with an opportunity to chat with patients of all ages and backgrounds and hopefully make their stay in hospital a little happier. A highlight of my day is getting to know each patient personally by listening to their stories and life experiences.
“It would be great if more male Volunteers could get involved. I would highly recommend volunteering as you have the rewarding opportunity to have a positive impact on a patient’s experience.”