Young nurse manager, Joanne Garlick, said the Health Service was fortunate to have such committed volunteers who provide support through fundraising and advocacy for their community’s health service needs.

United Hospital Auxiliary NSW Inc (Young Branch) and Lions Club fundraising efforts have enabled the hospital to purchase items such as a video laryngoscope used by the anaesthetists, a resuscitation mannequin and many other items that help improve the patient experience.

Through hospital auxiliaries, volunteers also provide financial support through fundraising and raising community awareness of hospital services.

Local Health Advisory Committee representatives are local people who volunteer their time to raise awareness of hospital services, and advocate for their community’s health service needs. The current focus has been on mental health services.

The Maternity Models of Care Committee and Baby Friendly Hospitals Initiative include volunteers from the community who provide input into the maternity shared care program and the maternity services provided at the health service.

Ms Garlick said the services provided through volunteers is highly regarded and much appreciated by health service staff and patients alike.

“Volunteers can make a real difference to a patient’s experience,” she said.

“Volunteering is a way the community can reach into the health service and make a real difference to people’s lives,” she said.