This week we celebrate the contribution of Lancashire Teaching Hospitals’ volunteers – numbering just over 300 - who go above and beyond to support our Trust, giving of their own time.
We give a huge thank you to each and every one of our volunteers, who all bring something special to the Trust.
Whether it’s providing companionship to patients on a ward, helping staff to serve meals or collecting medications for vulnerable patients at home, our NHS volunteers make a difference to people’s lives every single day.
Volunteers offer practical help, reassurance and companionship during what can be a stressful and uncertain time.
For staff, volunteers can ease pressure by taking on appropriate non-clinical tasks, helping create a more welcoming environment and giving teams confidence that patients have extra human support when they need it most.
Volunteering is often a first step into an NHS career, as it helps people explore the NHS, build confidence and discover where their skills fit.
At the Trust, there will be a number of events taking place over the week, while we will share stories from our volunteers on our communications channels.
Last year, figures showed that volunteers contribute over 6.4 million hours of their time to the NHS every year, with more than 70,000 individuals donating their time across various hospital trusts and community services in England.
At LTH, from April 2025 to March 26, volunteers gave 12,660 hours of their time.
Volunteers typically tend to give on average just over two hours a week of their time to volunteering, with a wide range of roles available allowing people to fit volunteering in around other commitments.
Duncan Burton, Chief Nursing Officer for England, said: “Every day I see the difference volunteers make across the NHS, health and social care. As someone who volunteers, I know that giving your time to something bigger than yourself can be a powerful way to support your wellbeing and connect with your community.
“Volunteers offer practical help, reassurance and companionship during what can be a stressful and uncertain time. For many people, volunteering is flexible and rewarding whether they are retired, studying, working, or considering a change in career.
“I want to express my deepest gratitude to every volunteer who has chosen to give their time to our NHS and social care. You are valued beyond measure. You are part of the NHS and care family, and the dedication, support and spirit you bring makes services stronger, kinder and better for everyone.”
