Bedfordshire hospitals' trust recruits its 500th volunteer to support patients and staff

The Bedfordshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust – which runs both hospitals – has recruited its 500th volunteer.

The dedicated team give upwards of 30,000 hours each year, providing invaluable support to patients and staff. They are recruited and supported by the Voluntary Services Team, part of Bedfordshire Hospitals NHS Charity.

This month (August), Promise became the 500th active volunteer after joining as a Macmillan support volunteer.

She said: “As an international student, I only work 20 hours a week. Once my classes finished, I found myself with more free time so I wanted to give something back to the society that has welcomed and supported me here.

“Supporting people who are going through difficult times is something I really care about, so volunteering at the hospital felt like a natural way to help.

“In return, volunteering will give me a real sense of purpose and connection. Being able to make someone’s day a little easier, even in a small way means a lot to me. I’m really grateful for the chance to be part of the NHS community in this way.”

Lisa, volunteer co-ordinator for recruitment & support, said: “We are so thrilled to have reached this impressive milestone. It’s truly amazing that so many people are willingly giving their time to assist staff, patients and visitors at our hospitals, and it really is an honour for me to spend my working days recruiting and supporting these amazing people.”

There are a huge number of volunteering roles available across both hospital sites – visit here for more details