Volunteers Week 2022 - Thank You

Volunteers Week takes place from 1-7 June every year and is a chance to recognise the fantastic contribution volunteers make to our communities and say thank you.

Volunteers have played a key role in the pandemic response. During an exceptionally difficult couple of years, people from all walks of life around the UK have taken the time to volunteer and make a huge difference to their communities – just as they do every year. We want to use this opportunity to appreciate all our volunteers here at OUH for their invaluable contribution. 

Our volunteers work across different teams at sites all-round the Trust. From supporting the League of Friends on all our hospital sites, to working with Oxford Hospital Charity supporting patients and members of staff. They also provide assistance to our in-house charities Supporting the Sick Newborn and their Parents (SSNAP), Sobell House Hospice, Katharine House Hospice, and the OUH Chaplaincy. 

We also use this opportunity to thank our Council of Governors who volunteer their time to represent the Trust’s staff and public membership and to help the Board to shape plans for the future. 

The previous High Sheriff of Oxfordshire, Imam Monawar Hussain, presented OUH volunteers with a High Sheriff Award in April 2022, calling them "Oxfordshire Heroes". He also appreciated their efforts especially during the pandemic where they helped in the distribution of PPE, raised funds, and provided support on all Trust sites. 

Some volunteers have also been nominated by Oxford Hospitals Charity for the Trust’s 2021 Staff Recognition Awards which is scheduled to later in the month. Volunteers have always been a wonderful addition to our workforce across all of our hospital sites. Many come to help us on a weekly basis and give their time freely to help others.

Terry Roberts, Chief People Officer at OUH said: "Our volunteers are an invaluable asset to our organisation. We are grateful for all they do for our patients, visitors and staff."

Bridget Daly, Voluntary Services Coordinator at OUH said: "Volunteers are an essential part of OUH, and the contribution and commitment that they make each day is greatly appreciated by patients, visitors, and members of staff."

Hazel Murray, Head of Programme at Oxford Hospitals Charity said: "The whole charity team would like to join the Trust in saying a huge thank you to all the volunteers who do so much across our hospitals. We absolutely love working alongside you, and with your help are able to reach so many more staff and patients."

Betty Wood, OUH Volunteer said: "I have been volunteering at the Trust for just under a year which I fit in around my degree. It has helped me grow as a person and also allowed me to meet lots of new people. 

"The experience I have had while volunteering at the Trust has been nothing but positive; the volunteering team are so welcoming and supportive. 

"Every member of staff or volunteer I have interacted with has been so caring and warm. The people in the Trust have definitely contributed to my positive experience while volunteering."