VOLUNTEERS who assist health related organisations in the Isle of Man are being celebrated this week.
Health Minister David Anderson MHK opened an exhibition on volunteering at Noble's Hospital earlier today to mark the start of Volunteers' Week.
He said: "It is a great feeling knowing that there are special individuals who go out of their way to help others. I personally think that this scheme, which was started several years ago, is going from strength to strength and without the hard work, dedication and sheer selflessness of these volunteers the Department of Health would not be able to provide the high standard of service it does today."
Alison Lester, Noble's Hospital's volunteer service manager, said: "Volunteers' Week is our chance to reward, recruit and recognise the valuable role of the volunteer and to say thank you for the time they give in supporting patients, visitors and staff - not only at Noble's Hospital but also in our other off site areas such as the Central Community Health Centre at Westmoreland Road.
"During the week we shall have various musical performances, a thanksgiving service on Wednesday in the hospital chapel and the Volunteer of the Year award on Friday."
Patients, visitors and staff can also take part in a community art project and place a 'wish' on a wishing tree. Once all the trees have been completed they will be exhibited as part of the Noble's Hospital healing arts programme.
Mr Anderson continued: "I would personally like to thank everyone who has taken part in volunteering for the department and that your assistance has helped shape the quality of our services and it does not go unrecognised."
If you would like to become a volunteer or would like more information on events being held this week please contact Alison on 01624 650720 or e-mail Alison.lester@gov.im.
Photo caption: L to R - Alison Lester, volunteer services manager, Rosie Boardman, public health student, David Killip, chief executive of Department of Health, Minister for Health David Anderson MHK, Neal Mellon, divisional manager, Marian Ord, Red Cross volunteer, Jenny Wersham, Red Cross volunteer and Margaret Bell, Noble’s Hospital volunteer.
