North Tees Hospital volunteers win Community Stars Award

Volunteers were honoured with a Community Stars Award at a ceremony hosted by Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council.

Alison McNab, one of the hospital volunteers who attended the event alongside fellow volunteers Mike Walmsley, Leah Wood and Paul Musson, said: “We won an award! What a lovely surprise.

“Helping out at our local hospital is really rewarding. We try to make a difference to patients every day.

“We don’t do it to be recognised but a pat on the back is nice at times.”

Paul Wharton, volunteer coordinator, said the award was a tribute to the entire volunteer team.

He said: “I’m just so happy for the team to receive this award.

“Whilst only a few volunteers could make the award ceremony, it really is on behalf of every volunteer who supports our patients, staff and our community.

“Our volunteers play a huge role in the lives of our patients and staff.

“They are part of the family and we’re thrilled they have received this award from the council.

“Our volunteers really are community stars.”

Councillor Norma Stephenson said: “I was honoured to present a Community Stars award to the hospital volunteer team, who work tirelessly every day to support patients and staff.

“They are a shining credit to the Borough, and this award is a well-deserved recognition of their compassion, dedication and the positive impact they make in our community.”

To find out more about volunteering, call 01642 383933 or email nth-tr.volunteersnth@nhs.net.