It’s life in the slow lane as volunteers start to return
EAST Cheshire Hospice is bringing back volunteers slowly following the Covid crisis.
Volunteers on the ward and in the Sunflower Centre could be among the next roles to return.
The Hospice is proceeding with extreme caution to meet Covid safety guidelines.
Voluntary Services Co-ordinator Helena Smith said: “The clinical roles are the hardest to get back because of infection control, even though they’re very much needed.
“We’re trying to reduce footfall in the ward and clinical staff have been undertaking work usually done by volunteers who bring something extra.”
Drivers for day care patients and receptionist staff came back some time ago.
Helena said: “We’ll be in touch with people as and when roles become available. Not knowing what the future holds makes it difficult to plan ahead with confidence.
“If you’re not back yet and you want to come back, we want you back when the time’s right.
“Anyone who’s volunteered here before can come back if they wish.
“I must pay tribute to our fundraising volunteers who’ve adapted magnificently, selling masks, handmade goods and cakes etc to friends and neighbours.
“They’ve been creative and generated a huge amount for us, as has everyone else.
“The community has offered to help as volunteers and it’s been hard turning them down.
“Volunteering is good for mental and physical health. It’s been hard knowing the people who work so hard for us aren’t able to do what they love.
“They want to contribute but can’t and have found that really difficult.”