Hospice expresses its gratitude to its selfless staff and volunteers

Volunteers at a leading charity have been dubbed“an extraordinary bunch of people”.

In a message on its website, Paisley’s Accord Hospice has praised the dedication of those who turn up to help the charity in all sorts of roles.

The message is part of guidance for volunteers during the current coronavirus emergency.

“Your safety and well-being remains paramount and we owe a duty of care to all of our staff and volunteers,”the message reads.

“We strongly urge you to review the latest updated guidance given regarding social contact and consider stepping back from your volunteering commitment to Accord if you are over 70 and/or have any underlying health conditions that increase your susceptibility or even if you just feel you should take extra care during the current situation.

“We are asking you to consider your own and your family situation first and foremost and take a step back, if appropriate, until this guidance changes.

“As volunteers, we fully understand your commitment to Accord so please do not feel you are letting us down by doing so. We will work out a solution to any issues which might arise.”

However, there is still a role for volunteers to play at this challenging time, the message adds.

“If you feel that you can still help Accord during this difficult time, taking into account your own personal circumstances, and are of a less vulnerable category, please get in touch with us at 0141 581 2000 or info@accord.org.uk.

“We will explore the safest way to use your skills and expertise somewhere if that is possible.”

The message adds:“The safety and well-being of our volunteers remain paramount. Thank you for your incredible flexibility and outstanding support during this time.

“You really are an extraordinary group of people.”

Earlier this week the Paisley Daily Express revealed that Accord has become an in-patient hub for both itself and Johnstone’s St Vincent’s Hospice during the emergency.

This means all new in-patient referrals to both hospices will be cared for at Accord.