General Information

"The Home Office’s Citizenship Report shows that almost 40% of people are engaged in some kind of civic participation, however small-scale – that’s almost 16 million people. Clearly our fellow citizens are not all retreating into a purely private and selfish approach to life. Furthermore, 40% of people believe that they can influence decisions affecting their local areas. So they have not given up on being actively involved in what happens in their neighbourhoods."

Extract from the CVS Edith Kahn Memorial Lecture, 11th June 2003. Delivered by Rt. Hon. David Blunkett MP, Home Secretary.

Volunteering at Airedale

Since it was opened in 1970 as the district hospital for this area, Airedale General Hospital has been helped and supported by many hospital volunteers, whether working as individuals or through general organisations such as the Friends of Airedale and Airedale New Venture, or dedicated support groups.

This involvement has been appreciated, not only by patients, but also by hospital management and staff over the years.

The Trust acknowledges the very valuable contributions made by volunteers and supports them in their wide-ranging activities.

There are many changes taking place within the NHS, and the Voluntary Services Department at Airedale NHS Foundation Trust is responding to these. The Voluntary Services are committed to improving the quality of service to the hospital’s patients and visitors.

The Voluntary Services Department welcomes applications from all adults in the community, irrespective of age, gender, race or religion.

"Personal volunteering builds up confidence and skills. It raises personal esteem and self-worth. It strengthens communities, and helps people learn and care about the wider society and democracy of which they are a part. And it represents, in as clear as possible a way, the value and importance of giving to others."

Extract from the CVS Edith Kahn Memorial Lecture, 11th June 2003, delivered by Rt. Hon. David Blunkett MP, Home Secretary.