From Our Chairman

25th July, 2022

In the first of a new blog series, Tim Hutchings, Chairman of our Board of Trustees, reflects on how the Friends of Moorfields have fared during the COVID-19 pandemic.

It is often said that at the time of extreme challenge we see the very best of the human spirit. The way so many people responded to the challenges that arose from Covid certainly did much to support that view. Nowhere was this better illustrated than in the actions of so many of our volunteers who throughout, often in the face of physical and mental challenge, exercised good humour and a cool sense of authority, enabling the hospital to operate in a safe and efficient environment.

Now, as we move toward what passes for normality, it is pleasing to see the return of the full range of services our volunteers provide, whether it be working in the shop, supporting patients through their anxieties by providing a supportive and knowledgeable hand-holding service, or simply (or should that be ‘not so simply’) helping them to arrive at the right place at the right time.

The contribution of our volunteers doesn’t end there. It would be completely remiss to overlook those who provide the important telephone service that reminds patients about their appointments. The number of ‘no shows’ has reduced considerably as a result.

Talking to our volunteers it is clear that their overriding motivation arises from a wish to do something worthwhile to support their fellow human beings, nonetheless, it is pleasing to observe that they are also rewarded in many ways, including through the respect and friendship of so many colleagues. The bonds that link our volunteers, young and old, are deeply impressive, something of which they, and our professional staff, should be immensely proud.

I strongly believe that the Friends of Moorfields are unique amongst hospital volunteers, especially given the range of their contribution but, like any organisation that seeks to continually improve itself, we are not content to simply rest on our laurels. I am delighted that we are now introducing Volunteer to Career, which although still in its early stages has already supported some of our volunteers to find formal employment within the health service. There are many reasons to be optimistic about the future of the Friends of Moorfields, but chief amongst them is our fantastic team of volunteers. My thanks for everything you have done and continue to do.