Monday, June 17, 2013

Christchurch Hospital Volunteers awarded

The Christchurch Hospital Volunteers have received an Outstanding Achievement award in the Health Care Provider Service category of the 2013 Minister of Health Volunteer Awards on Monday.

Associate Minister of Health and Minister for the Community and Voluntary sector, Hon. Jo Goodhew presented the award to Christchurch Hospital Volunteer Coordinator Jan Danrell at a ceremony held at Christchurch Hospital this morning.

The awards recognise and celebrate the invaluable contributions of volunteers to the health and disability sector in New Zealand. They also highlight the commitment and willingness that individuals and teams of volunteers have demonstrated within New Zealand’s health and disability sector.

Jan Danrell says it is fabulous to receive the official recognition.

“We are fortunate to have such a great group of volunteers. I know our patients, their families, whānau, visitors and staff really appreciate the warm and friendly support they receive from the volunteers - people with time and energy to spare,” Jan says.

In addition to providing invaluable services such as guiding, a mobile shop and library books the group raises funds through the sale of items through a gift shop based at Christchurch Hospital. In the last financial year it raised $ 209,000 which has been used to provide patient comforts such as new settees, chairs, artwork, toys, study grants and even the provision of Xboxes.

The Canterbury District Health Board has more than 390 volunteers ranging from students to retirees working throughout its hospital services at Christchurch, Burwood, The Princess Margaret, Ashburton, Rangiora and Akaroa Hospitals.

David Meates, CDHB chief executive says it’s a remarkable achievement.

“We know that all our volunteers are special and it’s pleasing to see this group being officially recognised for their wonderful work.”

ENDS

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