Big-hearted hospital volunteers have been thanked for their services at the annual Volunteers Celebration Event.
The event was attended by more than 30 volunteers who were presented with certificates in recognition of their length of service.
Including those who were unable to attend the event, a total of 43 volunteers have achieved 10 years’ service and ten have achieved 20 years.
In addition, two volunteers were recognised for 40 years’ service and are the only volunteers to achieve this milestone in the last decade.
There are around 1,200 registered volunteers in the community and at hospitals across the county from Eastbourne to Rye and Uckfield.
The volunteers give their time free for a minimum of four hours a week with many working longer hours.
Alice Webster, director of nursing for East Sussex Healthcare NHS Trust, said, “We are extremely grateful for the work undertaken by the many volunteers in our hospitals.
“They all share one common thing – they give the precious gift of time.
“It is time freely given, in many cases a considerable amount of time, which all helps contribute to a better experience for our patients and visitors.
“The work, commitment and enthusiasm of our volunteers are a superb example to us all and a great service to the local community.”
Margaret Neller, who received a 10 year long service award, lives in Hailsham and volunteers at Eastbourne DGH two mornings a week.
She said, “I had to give up work for health reasons and wanted something to do, one of my friends was volunteering at the DGH and she told me about it.
“Volunteering makes me feel needed and keeps my brain ticking over, there’s a very happy atmosphere and you meet lots of different people.
“To anyone thinking about volunteering I’d say don’t just sit at home, come and do it.”
• If you would like more details about becoming a hospital volunteer, then contact the volunteer co-ordinators Corinne France on 01323 417400 ext 4880.