Celebrating our volunteers during Volunteers’ Week 2026
This Volunteers’ Week (1–7 June 2026), CLCH is proud to celebrate and recognise the incredible contributions made by our volunteers across the organisation.
Volunteers’ Week is a national celebration of the people who generously give their time to support communities, services and organisations across the UK. It provides the perfect opportunity to thank our volunteers, celebrate their achievements, and spotlight the real difference they make every day.
At CLCH, volunteers are an important part of our services and the care that we provide. We currently have 120 registered volunteers, with more than 100 active volunteers supporting teams across our five boroughs and beyond. Working alongside colleagues in over 60 services across our divisions, volunteers contribute their time, skills and compassion to improve the experience of patients, families and staff.
Over the past 12 months alone, CLCH volunteers have contributed an incredible 7,442 hours of volunteering and supported 40,079 patients. From providing companionship and emotional support, to helping people access services, promoting wellbeing and supporting clinical teams, our volunteers are making a real, meaningful difference.
Their impact can be seen every day in the small moments that matter most: offering a listening ear to someone who feels isolated, helping patients feel more confident and connected, supporting rehabilitation and recovery, and creating welcoming environments for patients and families. These acts of kindness strengthen our services and improve the experience of care for the communities that we serve.
Nia Dimond, Acting Head of Volunteering and Engagement, said:
“We want to wish all of our volunteers a very happy Volunteers’ Week 2026. It is a privilege to work with over 100 volunteers across all five of our boroughs and we are so grateful for their support and time across the year. We hope this week serves as an opportunity for volunteers to celebrate their achievements and for staff to show their gratitude.
“To give your personal time to do something great for someone else is a wonderful thing and the impact of our volunteers is felt by our staff, patients and communities every day.”
Chris Mackay, Head of Clinical Service for Inpatient Rehabilitation in Hertfordshire, said:
“Our volunteers make a real difference across our rehabilitation units and services in Hertfordshire. They are a valued part of our teams and help create a friendly, welcoming environment for patients and their families.
“Whether it is offering a chat, providing companionship, helping patients feel connected, or simply taking the time to listen, their support has a positive impact on people’s wellbeing and recovery. For many patients, those small acts of kindness make a big difference during their stay with us.
“Their commitment, generosity and enthusiasm are greatly appreciated by everyone they work with. On behalf of our patients, families and staff, I would like to say a heartfelt thank you to all of our volunteers during Volunteers’ Week.”
Rob Guile, Director of Operations for the South West Division, said:
“I want to say a heartfelt thank you to all our volunteers. Their support brings comfort, connection and care to people across our communities. From breastfeeding volunteers in Merton, to Max the therapy dog and owner Marta Candela, they help create positive experiences for patients and families alike.
“Special thanks also go to Rita Ball, last year’s Volunteer of the Year winner at the CLCH Staff Awards, for her work with the Merton dementia team and local care homes. Your compassion and commitment make a real difference.”
Jackie Allain, Divisional Director, for the Outer North West Division, Said:
“During Volunteers’ Week, I would like to thank all our volunteers for the time, care and energy you give so generously. Whether you are supporting patients, families or our staff teams, your kindness helps make a real difference every day. We are proud to have you as part of the CLCH family and truly appreciate everything you do.”
Sam Howard, Deputy Director of Nursing and Therapies for the Outer North West Division, added:
“During Volunteers’ Week, I’d like to recognise the outstanding work of our volunteers across the Outer North West Division. Whether supporting heart failure patients, promoting healthy living, or offering a friendly face on our wards, each of you plays an essential role in our care teams. Thank you for your dedication, kindness and the positive impact you bring to our communities.”
Navneet Willoughby, Divisional Director, for the Inner North West Division, said:
“Volunteers play a vital role in helping us provide the best possible experience for our patients and communities. Your compassion, dedication and willingness to help are greatly valued by everyone across the Division. Thank you for the difference you make and for the support you give throughout the year.”
K Isaac, Director of Operations, for the North Central Division, said:
“Volunteers play an invaluable role across our North Central Division, bringing compassion, commitment and a sense of community to the services we provide. Whether supporting patients directly, helping people feel more connected, or enhancing the experience of care, their contribution makes a real difference every day.
“During Volunteers’ Week, I would like to thank each and every one of our volunteers for the time, energy and kindness they give so generously. I would also like to thank any of our staff who also volunteer outside of their roles.”
We encourage all staff to take a moment during Volunteers’ Week to thank the volunteers they work alongside and celebrate the invaluable role they play in supporting our patients, services and communities.
To all of our volunteers: thank you for your time, compassion, commitment and dedication. Your contribution makes a lasting difference, and we are proud to celebrate you during Volunteers’ Week 2026.
