Pupils recognised for NHS volunteering

At the end of December, Matthew Lowdon, Lucy Timney and Zoe Hutcheon were each presented with Saltire Award certificates after dedicating their free time to providing help in Ninewells Hospital wards.

The Awards celebrate the commitment and contribution of young people in volunteering and Matthew was recognised after spending 25 hours on placement on Ward 16, Lucy after spending 10 hours on Ward 18, and Zoe after spending 25 hours on Ward 6.

The pupils choose to build these volunteering placements into their school timetable, completing their time in free periods and/or after school. All three said they were delighted to have been able to help out with general duties on the wards and to talk to patients, and had found the experience very rewarding.

In total, nine young NHS Tayside volunteers were receiving Saltire Awards and Val Ewan, Voluntary Services Manager at Ninewells Hospital, said, “The young volunteers are all appreciated on the wards where they volunteer and can make a difference to patients by spending time with them, running an errand or assisting with serving hot drinks.

“We encourage all our young volunteers to sign up for Saltire Awards. We know it is a great way to recognise the contribution they make to the organisation.

“I would like to congratulate this group of volunteers on their achievements and thank them for giving up their time to volunteer with us.”