Volunteers’ Week 2026: Thank you to our incredible volunteers
This Volunteers’ Week, we are shining a spotlight on some of the remarkable volunteers whose dedication and kindness help make CLCH a better place for patients, communities and colleagues.
Giving back to the community – Susan Sperber Kosky
Since August 2023, Susan has volunteered as a Meet and Greet Volunteer in the Phlebotomy Department at Finchley Memorial Hospital, becoming a familiar and welcoming presence who helps patients feel comfortable and at ease during their appointments.
Susan said: “The phlebotomists who I support are very friendly, and they have such a kind manner with patients, some of whom are quite nervous when they arrive. So are the receptionists.f.”
"Most people are grateful for the support volunteers provide and often thank us for being there. What I enjoy most about volunteering is giving back to the community and meeting so many lovely patients and staff.”
Supporting families on their feeding journey – Bianca Sanasi
Breastfeeding Peer Support Volunteer Bianca Sanasi decided to volunteer after speaking with a health visitor following the birth of her third child. Having breastfed all three of her children, she wanted to use her experience to support other parents.
“I enjoy helping within the community and felt this position would be ideal for me. I believe job satisfaction is gained through helping others, and this was paramount in my decision to become a volunteer.”
“As a Breastfeeding Peer Support Volunteer, I empower parents with their infant feeding journey and help them reach their goals. I listen without judgement, offer support and signpost parents when needed.”
“It is incredibly rewarding to see parents become more relaxed and shed tears of joy when their baby successfully self-latches. Volunteering has had a massive impact on me, highlighted the important role volunteers play in supporting our communities.”
A friendly face on the ward – Stephen Phillips
Stephen Phillips has been volunteering with CLCH for an incredible 13 years and is mainly based on Edgware Community Rehabilitation Unit (ECRU) Ward at Edgware Community Hospital.
Stephen said: “I try to give something back to patients in hospital and all the wonderful, dedicated staff on the ward. Having personally been on two cancer journeys, I can relate to what patients, and their families are going through. I have learnt to be so fortunate to have my health, family and friends. It is extremely sad to meet patients who have no visitors and who worry about their futures after they leave hospital.”
Throughout his years of service, Stephen has supported countless patients and colleagues, offering companionship, reassurance and understanding. Stephen’s compassion, empathy and dedication demonstrate the powerful impact volunteers can have on the wellbeing of patients during challenging times.
Building confidence through connection – Jeannette van den Oever
Jeannette van den Oever volunteers as a Ward Befriender at Finchley Memorial Hospital, spending time with patients, offering companionship and helping brighten their day.
“As a future radiography student, I started volunteering to see if a patient-facing career would be a good fit. I'm not a natural extrovert, but the ward staff were very welcoming, and I tried to fully embrace my Ward Befriender role.
“I’ve met so many lovely people. It's amazing how quickly you can raise a smile talking about anything from food, travel, children, pets or even Star Wars! The experience has been excellent preparation for my degree and my future role in healthcare, and I have found it very rewarding and enjoyable.”
From volunteer to Diabetes Educator – Meachi Egbuchiri
Motivated by a desire to honour her late father, who lived with diabetes, Meachi Egbuchiri began volunteering with the Brent Diabetes Team, demonstrating how volunteering can transform lives and open pathways into healthcare careers.
“I grew up in a close-knit community where helping others was a natural part of everyday life. After my dad passed away, I wanted to give back, make a difference and push myself out of my comfort zone.”
“When I first started volunteering, I didn’t know what to expect. I wasn’t sure whether my skills would translate into a healthcare setting. As my confidence grew, I saw the positive difference I could make. It has been incredibly rewarding to realise how much I enjoy volunteering and playing a part in helping people manage their diabetes.”
Anganie Seecharan, Diabetes Clinical Service Lead for Brent and Harrow and Meachi’s former volunteer manager, said: “Volunteers provide that human connection, extra time and friendly face that patients often need.”
“They offer support in ways that complement clinical care and enhance the overall patient experience. Meachi’s journey is a great example of how volunteering benefits both the individual and the organisation.”
During Volunteers’ Week 2026, we would like to say a heartfelt thank you to all our volunteers. Your contribution is valued, appreciated and makes a lasting difference to our patients, services and communities every day.
If you or someone you know has ever considered volunteering, now is the perfect time to get involved. Volunteering offers the opportunity to learn new skills, meet new people, support your community and make a real difference.
Click here to learn more about becoming a volunteer at CLCH.
