King supports volunteering at RJAH

The League of Friends at Shropshire’s specialist orthopaedic hospital proudly hosted the launch of ‘Friends Voices’ – a scheme to highlight the dedication and compassion of volunteers who support healthcare services. 

Held in the main entrance of The Robert Jones and Agnes Hunt Orthopaedic Hospital, the event brought together staff, volunteers, and special guests to honour the incredible contributions of the Friend’s volunteers through storytelling and shared experiences. 

Friends Voices was developed by Attend, a national charity dedicated to enhancing volunteer roles and fostering healthier communities, and the project serves as both a tribute to past and present efforts and an inspiration for future volunteer initiatives. 

Attendees had the chance to hear recorded and live interviews, shining a light on the profound impact volunteers have at the Oswestry-based hospital.  

David Wood OBE, CEO of Attend, participated in the event, leading live interviews with volunteers. He said: “The Friends at RJAH is one of the shining stars that is the firmament of Friends across the UK.  

“The Friends Voices project has proved the diversity of volunteering across the site in Oswestry and confirmed the contributions and commitment of so many.  

Volunteers are the backbone of countless organisations, and RJAH is no exception. This collection offers a unique glimpse into the experiences of ten dedicated volunteers who have made invaluable contributions: from offering social care and administrative support to fundraising and providing compassion to patients and their families. 

The event was graced by special guests, including the His Majesty's Lord-Lieutenant of Shropshire Mrs Anna Turner JP, the charity's esteemed patron, and the High Sheriff of Shropshire Mr Brian Welti JP, who presented awards to honour outstanding volunteer contributions. 

Mrs Turner said: “To hear Friends Voices and the huge variety of reasons that volunteers sign up to help at RJAH brings a glow of warmth and recognition of so much human kindness. They both offer and accept friendship whilst stretching out a hand in help.” 

Mr Welti said: “It was a huge pleasure to attend the Friends Voices event with the many volunteers from the Friends of RJAH. 

“I was honoured to present High Sheriff of Shropshire recognition awards to over 20 volunteers, celebrating their dedication to supporting patients, staff, and fundraising projects while fostering a warm, infectious atmosphere of friendship.” 

“The celebrations were a perfect way of bringing so much together.” 

Victoria Sugden, Charity Director of the RJAH Friends, said: “We would like to extend a heartfelt thanks to Attend for their sponsorship and support of this meaningful initiative. 

“This project beautifully captures the heart and history of volunteer contributions. It’s a moving celebration of their dedication and an inspiration for the future.” 

If you are interested in volunteering at RJAH visit friendsrjah.org.uk/volunteer/.