“Volunteering is such a great achievement for me. I have learnt a lot over the years and it has built my skills and confidence. It’s great to be able to meet a variety of people and help them find their way. A friendly face and a smile can make a patient feel more confident and ease their worries. You can see the difference that it makes when someone goes away happier and more relaxed and it’s nice to know that I have made a positive difference to their day.” The words of Pauline Rogan, who has been volunteering for the South Eastern Trust for over 14 years, expressing her feelings ahead of this year’s International Volunteer Day which is celebrated on 5 December 2023.
Marking International Volunteer Day, the South Eastern Trust is proudly recognising the remarkable efforts of 360 Volunteers who have contributed to over 461 diverse roles across the Trust area.
The roles undertaken by our Volunteers span a wide range of activities, including a Meeter & Greeter Service which aids patients and visitors to find their way to the correct facility or department within a Trust site. Activity Volunteers who assist service users to try new recreational activities, to encourage their confidence and improve their knowledge and skills. Volunteer Drivers who transport cardiac monitors to speed up the process of cardiac investigations and Ward Volunteers who spend time befriending patients to ease their hospital stay.
This year’s theme, “If Everyone Did” resonates strongly with the contributions our Volunteers make every day, recognising the unique role they play in making a difference to the lives of patients and clients.
Trust Chairman, Jonathan Patton expressed his gratitude to the Volunteers by saying, “I want to celebrate International Volunteer Day by recognising the incredible contribution that our Volunteers at South Eastern Trust make every day of the year. From meeting and greeting at the front door, to helping feed patients on wards, to befriending the lonely in the community and dozens more spheres of service. Their gift of time, kindness and a willing heart means so much to those they come in contact with and many leave a lasting impression.
“I am indebted to them for the value they bring and the difference they make to the life of the Trust. Volunteers are a vital part of our Trust family.”
Volunteer Services Manager, Sonya Duffy added, “The Volunteer Services Team is inspired on a daily basis by the Volunteers we come in contact with. Our Volunteers vary in age from 16 to 85+ years. They come from different backgrounds, some are students, some have jobs, some are retired and some suffer from ill health themselves or care for a family member, but they don’t let their busy lives stop them from volunteering to help others. They are kind, caring and committed to making a positive difference to the lives of our patients and clients.
“The roles Volunteers play within the Trust improve the health and social care services we provide. Their contribution supports patients in a way we are unable to replicate with staff. Volunteers are great role models, showing how you can do so much with a little time and a positive, compassionate attitude.
“I would like to take this opportunity to thank all our Volunteers for their continued support. They are truly inspirational and cherished members of our team.”
If you would like to find out more about becoming a volunteer, please get in touch with the Volunteer Services Team by telephoning (028) 9056 4817 or by emailing: Volunteer@setrust.hscni.net