With so much emphasis nowadays on reducing costs, it is both wonderful and inspiring that so many of you are willing to volunteer. Whether it is a few days work at a charity shop, or a long term commitment to an organisation, volunteers can make a real difference. Each year, the three Hospitals within our Trust benefit from the support of over 400 volunteers who give up their free time on a regular basis to help our staff and patients. From assisting on reception with clerical duties to serving someone a steaming, well deserved ‘cuppa,’ it’s pleasing to know that people are willing to give up their time at no cost, gaining purely self fulfillment and perhaps a few interesting Holby City esque stories to tell round the dinner table.

Patients, visitors, maybe a stressful day at work…ahem…Hospitals are hardly on the list for fun days out, so anyone that can make you feel slightly more relaxed by offering a smile, a sandwich or a sense of support is greatly valued. Many of the volunteers who work at the League of Friends tea bar are either retired or former patients, always making your hospital experience a pleasant one. Our hospitals in the Trust even run a long service award scheme to acknowledge outstanding contributions by individuals.

So why not get involved? If you’re interested in becoming a volunteer for any of the West Hertfordshire hospitals, get started by calling 01923 217358 or pop into the Patient and Liaison Office at my 2nd home, Watford General. You can also pick up a Volunteer Recruitment Pack from the Main Reception at Hemel Hempstead and St Albans City Hospitals.

In the words of a famous supermarket…”every little helps” (other supermarkets are available with very catchy straplines!)

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Readers who submit articles must agree to our terms of use. The content is the sole responsibility of the contributor and is unmoderated. But we will react if anything that breaks the rules comes to our attention. If you wish to complain about this article, contact us here