NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde (NHSGGC) is marking Volunteers’ Week by celebrating the people who give their time, compassion and energy to support patients, visitors and staff across its hospitals and community services.
From the first Monday in June each year, Volunteers’ Week shines a light on the vital contribution volunteers make across the UK – and within NHSGGC, that contribution can be seen every day in the familiar sight of red T-shirts in corridors, wards and reception areas.
More than 232people aged 17-92 devote thousands of hours every month, working alongside staff in a range of roles across NHSGGC, and Volunteers’ Week is a chance to recognise, celebrate and thank this much-loved group of people.
Easily recognisable and always ready to help, NHSGGC’s volunteers play an important role in creating a welcoming, supportive environment for everyone who walks through the doors of its services.
Whether they are greeting people as they arrive, helping with directions, spending time with patients, supporting activities on wards or simply offering a listening ear, volunteers complement the work of NHSGGC staff, providing a little extra kindness and reassurance for patients, visitors and staff.
Fiona Smith, Strategic Lead for Volunteering at NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde, said: “Our volunteers are a constant and positive presence across our services, and their contribution makes a real difference to the experience of patients, visitors and staff alike.
“They give their time so generously, offering support, conversation and comfort, often in situations where a small act of kindness can have a huge impact.
“Volunteers’ Week gives us a chance to say a heartfelt thank you to every single person who wears the red T-shirt and do so much alongside our staff to support everyone who uses our hospitals.”
Volunteers come from all walks of life and bring with them a wide range of experiences, skills and motivations. Some are looking to give something back to their community, others are gaining experience at the start of their careers, and many are simply driven by a desire to help others.
No matter their background, they share a commitment to supporting people at what can often be a difficult or uncertain time.
Professor Angela Wallace, Executive Nurse Director and Executive Lead for Volunteering at NHSGGC, said: “Our volunteers are an invaluable part of our teams, and we are incredibly grateful for everything they do.
“They support people in ways that are both practical and deeply human – offering time, compassion and connection, which are so important in healthcare settings.
“On behalf of everyone at NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde, I would like to thank our volunteers for their dedication and commitment as part of our wider NHSGGC family.”
Volunteers’ Week is also an opportunity to encourage others to get involved and join the volunteering community within NHSGGC.
With a range of roles available across hospital and community settings, even a few hours each week can have a meaningful impact – not only for those receiving support, but for volunteers themselves.
Anyone interested in becoming a volunteer and making a difference is encouraged to find out more and explore current opportunities on the NHSGGC website.
To find out more about volunteering with NHSGGC, go to Volunteering with NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde – NHSGGC
