TO MARK National Volunteer Week from June 1-7, local MP Greg Clark paid a visit to Tunbridge Wells Hospital to meet a variety of people – and a dog – who give up their time to help patients feel comfortable.
They included volunteer receptionists, ward companions, radio staff and Archie the West Highland terrier, whose owner Susan works with the charity Pets as Therapy.
More than 200 local people help the hospital on a voluntary basis.
Mr Clark also visited the volunteers, staff and patients of Ward 20, which specialists in rehabilitation for older people.
He said: “Volunteers play a vital, if sometimes overlooked, role in our hospitals and the NHS as a whole.
“Although their dedication deserves recognition all year round, I am glad to have the opportunity to thank them myself during National Volunteer Week for their outstanding commitment and hard work.”
