VOLUNTEERS who support full-time staff at hospitals and health centres are being praised for their "amazing" work this week.

As the country celebrates National Volunteers Week, helpers at Bolton NHS Foundation Trust are being sent cards to thank them for their efforts.

These volunteers help out at the Royal Bolton Hospital as well as the Bolton One Health Centre by supporting staff and patients.

Christine Mills, volunteers coordinator for the trust, said: “Our volunteers at Bolton are marvellous. The difference they make to patient experience cannot be underestimated.

“Having someone there to welcome you and to make a cup of tea – these things help put patients at ease. Our volunteers are a listening ear, another person they can talk to about how they are feeling.

“They are there to support our hard working staff, not to replace them or paid roles, but to contribute to giving our patients the best possible experience when they come to the trust and the feedback we receive from patients about their contribution is nothing short of amazing.

"Sending a card is a small token of our appreciation."

She added: "Some people volunteer because they are thinking of a career in a health care setting and want to experience what that may be like. Other people volunteer because they feel strongly about giving something back to the community."

Anyone interested in getting involved with volunteering at Bolton NHS Foundation Trust will have all necessary training provided.

Find out more by emailing christine.mills@boltonft.nhs.uk or visiting: www.boltonft.nhs.uk/work-with-us/volunteer-with-us/.