Awards for long serving hospital volunteers

21 October 2003

A party was held at Southgate Community Centre on Friday 17^th October for volunteers at West Suffolk Hospital in Bury St Edmunds. The event was organised to recognise the magnificent contribution which the volunteers make to support services at the Hospital.

19 volunteers received awards for long service, ranging from 5 to 25 years.  A framed print was presented to Margaret Bonsor, Vice President of the Hospital’s League of Friends, for her fundraising work over the years.

“To have regularly given up your time for others every week year after year shows real dedication, and we are indebted to all our volunteers for the valuable help they give,” said Geraldine Debenham, Voluntary Services Manager.  “Margaret Bonsor has been involved with the Trust since the 1970s, when together with her late husband she was instrumental in raising money for the Health Care staff swimming pool at Hospital Road – a facility still enjoyed by staff and their families.”

The event at Southgate Community Centre was well attended by around 140 people, including Chief Executive John Parkes and Chairman Veronica Worrall. Gail Cornish, Regional Manager from Women’s Royal Voluntary Service, and June Snowden, President of Hospital Broadcasting Association, were also at the event.

Around 350 people are registered currently as volunteers at West Suffolk Hospital.  They work in many different areas of the Hospital, from Reception to the Rainbow Ward.

“We are very appreciative of the support given by all volunteers helping within the hospital”, said Geraldine.  “We have a wonderful team who bring that added dimension to the quality of our services by undertaking a wide variety of roles supporting staff and assisting patients, relatives and the general public.  We are indebted to our volunteers for their commitment and dedication, and for simply being there.”

 If you would like more information about volunteering at the West Suffolk Hospital, please contact Geraldine Debenham on 01284 713206.