Welcome to volunteering at Cambridge University Hospitals. I am particularly pleased to be able to put on record my great admiration for volunteering in all its forms. In a world where pressures of work, family and other commitments seem to grow relentlessly, one of the most precious gifts anyone can give is their time. I know myself the vital role that our wonderful volunteers play at Addenbrooke’s and the Rosie Hospitals, which form Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust (CUH).
Coming to hospital as a patient or visitor can be a daunting and stressful experience. We at the Trust meet people in often the most stressful and upsetting times of their lives. The fact that people give their time to volunteer to make the experience of our patients and their visitors more positive than it might otherwise have been is vitally important, and speaks to the very heart of what our organisation is all about.
Equally, CUH is a great place to volunteer, with a variety of roles to suit people’s interests, and other commitments and availability. We have great staff here, delivering world-class care and treatment to a local, regional and in some cases national population. The range of services provided makes the variety of opportunities for volunteering even greater, and I would encourage anyone to get involved in this great, and inspiring organisation.
Addenbrooke’s Hospital opened to patients in Trumpington Street in 1766. Of course the world today different in so many ways to that of 1766, but one thing hasn’t changed; people coming through our doors want kindness, reassurance and care. Our volunteers help us deliver this every day. I am very grateful.
Roland Sinker
Chief Executive, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust.
