NHS Dumfries and Galloway is joining organisations across the UK on the 41st year of National Volunteers’ Week celebrating their amazing volunteers and what they do to make a difference for patients, families and staff all year round.
In the past year, volunteers have given almost 18,000 hours locally in key roles in hospital and community settings across the region.
They act as welcome guides, ward volunteers, MacMillan Cancer information support, breastfeeding peer support, health and development volunteers in local communities, and do gardening at hospital sites, as well as man the hospital shop at DGRI.
All volunteers are required to spend a set amount of time on basic training, and additional time is spent on specific training, depending on what role they have.
NHS DG chief executive Julie White said: “I would like to express my heartfelt thanks to each and every volunteer who dedicates time, energy, and commitment to provide a vast range of support to people accessing our health service across Dumfries and Galloway.
“The health service in the region is enriched by your input, care and compassion. It is inspiring to hear the impact of your volunteering on patients, staff and our wider community and you are highly valued members of our teams.
“NHS D&G will continue to champion volunteering whilst ensuring that volunteers are supported to achieve their goals whilst being part of our teams.”
Director of nursing Mark Kelly added: “I am endlessly inspired by the kindness, energy, and dedication of our volunteers. They bring heart and humanity into every corner of our health service, offering comfort, connection, and compassion in ways that leave a lasting impact on patients, families and staff.
“With every smile, every hour given, every moment of support, our volunteers are an essential part of our NHS. They don’t just give their time; they share their spirit, showing us all what it means to truly care.”
To mark the occasion, there will celebrations and events, including a quiz night, health walk and treasure trail.
* For information about being a volunteer with NHS D&G, email [email protected]
Above- welcome guides at DGRI
