Mayor awards volunteers

JUNE is the month of the volunteer and The Stroke Association charity has taken the opportunity to recognise the support and commitment received from its volunteers through a series of celebration events throughout Northern Ireland. It is also calling for new volunteers to help improve the quality of life of the thousands of stroke survivors currently within Northern Ireland.

Mayor of Lisburn, Councillor Brian Heading is one of thirteen District Council Mayors who are attending celebratory events at the Association’s Stroke Support Group venues across the country where they will present certificates to a number of volunteers.

The Stroke Association Northern Ireland Director, Tom Richardson stated: “Our organisation could not operate successfully without the volunteers who help us provide support to the thousands of stroke survivors across Northern Ireland. On behalf of The Stroke Association NI, I would like to publicly thank all our volunteers for their dedication, commitment and continued hard work.

“We are delighted that the Mayor, Councillor Brian Heading attended our Lisburn event and presented certificates to the local volunteers. It also afforded him an ideal opportunity to meet some of the Lisburn Stroke Support Group members and staff and gain a better insight into stroke and the work of The Stroke Association.

“Although we are thankful for the fantastic volunteers we have, we still need the help and support of many more volunteers to help us effectively increase awareness of stroke, help raise much needed funds and deliver our services. There are many ways to support us but we currently need student or qualified nurses, doctors, ambulance staff, anyone in the medical field who could give up some of their time to help out with our blood pressure check events. High blood pressure is one of key risks of stroke and so these events are vitally important.”

Anyone over the age of 16, whatever their race or religion can volunteer. Whatever your reason for volunteering, The Stroke Association NI would greatly welcome your support.

For further information or to express an interest in volunteering with The Stroke Association NI, please contact Janice Kirkpatrick on 028 9050 8029 or email [email protected].

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