The dedication and value of volunteers will be celebrated by Mountbatten this week.
The charity will mark Volunteers’ Week, which runs from 1st – 7th June, with a party and awards ceremony to thank those who give their time to support Mountbatten. Special awards will be given to long-serving volunteers at the 7th June event.
Hartley: I am incredibly grateful to each and every one of them
Mountbatten is also using Volunteers’ Week to highlight roles it has available for people looking to support a local cause.
Nigel Hartley, Mountbatten CEO, said,
“Without our volunteers, we simply couldn’t care for the growing number of people across the Island who need us.
“Hundreds of volunteers support the hospice in all areas of our work, including round-the-clock care on our inpatient unit, for people at home, and our rehabilitation services to help patients live as well as they can for as long as possible. And supporting people to adjust to the death of a loved one with our free bereavement care.
“I am incredibly grateful to each and every one of them – they are the backbone of our work, and we are reliant on their generosity to continue serving the needs of local people.
“I look forward to celebrating the individuals who make such a remarkable difference to our communities during Volunteers’ Week.”
Critical role
Volunteers play a critical role in helping the charity care for people in the community, as well as at the hospice itself.
Tracey Richards, a Mountbatten Neighbours volunteer who visits Angie once a week to keep her company said,
“I love volunteering for Mountbatten and would recommend it to anyone.”
Tracey also volunteers regularly on the inpatient unit at the hospice.
What are Mountbatten Neighbours ?
Mountbatten Neighbours are a group of trained volunteers who offer their time, companionship, and support to people living near them who have serious illnesses or who are older.
Tracey said,
“Giving something back is so rewarding.
“It makes you appreciate what you have and that others are suffering and need your help. I get a great sense of achievement from giving my time to support others.”
Making a difference
Angie is in her 70s and her husband recently died. She has regular bereavement counselling with Mountbatten alongside a weekly visit from Tracey.
Tracey said,
“I love being a Neighbour and knowing I’ve made a difference to Angie’s day. And the friendship we have developed is important to both of us.”
Find out more
Volunteers’ Week is held annually, with hundreds of events held across the country to celebrate volunteering.
With the demand for Mountbatten’s services increasing rapidly, the charity needs more people to give their time, creativity, experience, and knowledge to fill a wide range of volunteer roles.
For more information on becoming a Mountbatten volunteer, visit the Website.
News shared by Jax on behalf of Mountbatten. Ed
