Hard work and dedication shown by volunteers within Walsall Healthcare NHS Trust will be celebrated tonight at a special awards ceremony.

This is the first face-to-face event since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic for the unsung heroes and has been organised by the Patient Relations and Experience Team to take place at Calderfields Hotel and Golf Club in Walsall.

Garry Perry, Associate Director - Patient Relations & Experience, said: “It’s wonderful to be back in person for the volunteer awards.

“Occasions like this are always so special and are the perfect opportunity to celebrate the amazing efforts and contributions of volunteers – all of whom offer their free time to assist staff, while at the same time enhancing the experience for those attending our hospital and community sites.

“We couldn’t do our jobs without their incredible support and I look forward to us all coming together and showing our appreciation for everything they do.

“I’d also like to thank our Trust charity Well Wishers for its continued funding support for these special events.”

There are more than 100 volunteers and staff due to attend, with accolades being presented in the following categories:

• Bronze award for one year of service
• Silver award for five years of service
• Gold award for 10 years of service
• Special recognition for 15 years of service or more
• Volunteer of the year – Community
• Volunteer of the year – Young Person
• Volunteer of the year – Hospital
• Bronze, Silver and Gold Contribution award

Professor David Loughton CBE, Chief Executive of the Trust, will be in attendance to present the awards alongside Lisa Carroll, Director of Nursing and Mayor of Walsall Councillor Rose Martin.