Cumbria, Northumberland, Tyne and Wear NHS Foundation Trust’s Voluntary Services Team has raised money for two worthy causes.
During Volunteers’ Week last month, the team ran a number of stalls across Trust sites. They held a tombola and games raising money for the Trust’s charity and a much-loved volunteer.
Money raised will go towards a memorial bench for volunteer Stevie Matthews. Made by the Woodwork Department at Northgate Park, the bench will be placed on Memorial Avenue at St George’s Park where Stevie was a volunteer.
Stevie, who volunteered for the Trust since 2019, sadly passed away last year aged 71. She gave her time to a number of services over the years, from volunteering in the chapel and supporting in wards, to the Covid-19 vaccination centre during the pandemic.
Wendy Spratt, Head of Volunteer Involvement, said: “If you were fortunate enough to get to know Stevie, you would be touched by her kindness and positivity.
“She always spoke fondly of her time as a volunteer and was immensely proud of it. She would often talk about the fantastic staff she had the pleasure of helping and how grateful she was to be able to help our patients in any way she could.”
The remaining money will go towards the SHINE charity, which supports people who use CNTW services by providing the extra things that can make a real difference.
The funding from SHINE helps provide the little extras to assist with people’s care, treatment or rehabilitation, helping them live happier, fuller lives.
Wendy added: “Our volunteers again proved that the power of successful fundraising is in their genes! Their enthusiasm and commitment to supporting CNTW was a joy to see. Across four hospital sites, they collectively raised just under £400, with more donations expected to come through. Thank you to our volunteers, we’d be lost without you all.
“I’d also like to thank everyone who gave so generously.”
The Voluntary Services Department plan to hold an event to unveil Stevie’s memorial bench over the summer.