Volunteers celebrated

The event provided an opportunity to thank all the volunteers for their valued time and commitment. As a mark of appreciation, the volunteers were presented with a certificate and gift.

Mrs Roberta Brownlee, Chair of the Trust thanked the volunteers and said, “It is a privilege for me to acknowledge the tremendous contribution our dedicated volunteers make to the health and social care needs of people living in this area.”

Mrs Brownlee also applauded the long serving volunteers for their commitment and commended them for the selfless manner in which they give of their time and talents to enhance the quality of life of others. The Trust plans to host an annual recognition event for its volunteers.

Denise Hayward from Volunteer Now congratulated the young volunteers who had completed 50 hours of volunteering and awarded these volunteers with Millennium Award certificates. Mrs Hayward said: “The Millennium Volunteers scheme is an initiative to promote and recognise volunteering among young people aged 14-25 years. It enables young people to develop their learning and skills, provides the opportunity to have fun, gain confidence and make a difference to causes they care about.”

Mrs Melanie McClements Assistant Director of Promoting Wellbeing commended the volunteers and said, “There are over 500 Volunteers working with the Southern Trust and we greatly appreciate the work they do. Your kindness and generosity of time has touched hundreds of people and has made a real difference to their lives.” Mrs McClements also acknowledged the Volunteer Coordinators for their work in both supporting the volunteers and identifying new volunteers.

Trust Volunteers come from all walks of life and provide a high quality service throughout the Trust. Staff value the contribution provided by volunteers who use their wide range of skills, knowledge and experience to provide a unique caring environment for all.

If you are interested in finding out more about volunteering opportunities throughout the Southern Trust, please contact:

Gerardette McVeigh, Volunteer Co-ordinator- Craigavon and Banbridge, (028) 38311484 or [email protected]