With a drinks reception, afternoon tea, and an address from local MPs, the occasion was organised to recognise the hard work of hospital volunteers, with certain participants being awarded for exceptional commitment at the Trust for serving fifteen years or longer.
Chrisha Alagaratnam, the Trust’s Chief Executive said she was delighted with the day’s proceedings: “As well as our staff, we have an outstanding team of more than 550 dedicated volunteers whose hard work contributes significantly to the smooth running of our hospitals.
“This year’s tea party was as lovely as ever, with the beautiful weather at the racecourse making it a fantastic occasion to give our volunteers the recognition they deserve,” she said.
Examples of volunteer roles at the Trust include meal time buddies, patient information volunteers, hosts to help direct visitors, service providers at shops, tea bars, ward refreshment trolleys and newspaper rounds.
Three of the volunteers were awarded special recognition for their long services to the Trust, with Norma Darter and Brenda Haigh having been volunteers with the Royal Voluntary Service at Epsom Hospital for 19 and 16 years respectively, and David Rees having presented a voluntary two-hour radio show at Epsom Hospital each week (Sundays, 6-8pm) for 15 years.
In addition to the Trust’s volunteers, the event was attended by senior managers as well as local politicians Paul Burstow and Tom Brake.
If you would like to find out more about how to volunteer at our hospital, our charities or how to make a donation, please visit www.epsom-sthelier.nhs.uk/supportus.
For more information about our hospitals, visit www.epsom-sthelier.nhs.uk. You can also join our 5,500 followers on Twitter (twitter.com/epsom_sthelier) or find us on Facebook (facebook.com/epsomsthelier).