VOLUNTEERS have stepped up to provide extra support at Royal Bolton Hospital as it deals with additional winter pressures.

Royal Voluntary Service members have put themselves forward to work extra hours at the hospital, while it comes under increased strain.

They already provide comfort and compassion to staff and patients through their cafes, shops and ward trolley rounds — but say they want to do more.

The eight volunteers are now doing extra trolley rounds, providing free water and fruit to patients, visitors and staff teams.

And extra stops in A&E to ensure those facing long waiting times will be offered refreshments.

Kate Bull, executive director of retail at Royal Voluntary Service says the organisation has been supporting the NHS since it it volunteers were determined to help ease the pressure on Royal Bolton Hospital.

She said: “Having seen first-hand the winter pressures being faced by the NHS, our volunteers have said they would like to do more for the people we support.

“So, using the gift of volunteering that our teams are willing to offer, we have asked for them to give us and the NHS more of their time.”

She continued:”This will allow Royal Voluntary Service to send out more trolleys, give faster service — and just to be there with a smiling face to extend a hand of friendship to those who want it.

“We’ve asked our suppliers to help us and, thanks to their support, we will be able to give free bottles of water and fruit to anyone in 10 hospitals who needs it from our trolleys as they move around the hospital.”

“I’ve been overwhelmed by the response but essentially our volunteer pool wanted to do what they have always done and do so brilliantly; roll their sleeves up and pitch in to help.”

Jackie Bene, Chief Executive of Bolton NHS Foundation Trust said: “We’re very grateful to the RVS volunteers for their kind thoughts and offer at this busy time.

“We’re sure our patients will appreciate the gesture.”