From 1 to 7 June 2026, Airedale Hospital will join thousands of charities and voluntary organisations recognising the fantastic contribution volunteers make across the UK.
Running every year since 1984, the week provides a crucial opportunity to thank volunteers and recognise the value of their time, passion and skills.
From running the two hospital shops, to helping people find their way around and supporting the Emergency Department, Airedale’s volunteers provide vital support in the hospital.
Airedale has around 200 registered hospital volunteers working in over 20 wards and departments within the hospital, including the Emergency Department, Maternity Ward, Chaplaincy and HODU (Haematology and Oncology Day unit). The volunteers also give their time and skills to serve in the Friends of Airedale shops, as well as helping vulnerable patients on the wards.
Roy and Douglas have been volunteering in the Emergency Department (ED) for 18 months and both enjoy helping people and would recommend it to anyone.
Roy says:
“The NHS has been good and still is to me and my family. This is my way of paying them back.”
Douglas was retired, had time to spare and enjoys meeting people. It’s also given him an understanding of what it’s like for staff working on the frontline. He says: “It’s made me realise how demanding working in ED is.”
Another volunteer is Valerie who is a Guide in the outpatient’s department and also volunteers in ED. She became a volunteer 8 years ago to keep herself occupied and to help the community and really enjoys meeting and helping people.
Valerie says: “I’ve had lots of personal benefits too: gaining an understanding of other people, giving compassion and a realisation of how fortunate I am and how precious life is.”
Gurmit Jauhal, Voluntary Services Manager at Airedale NHS Foundation Trust says
“Volunteers’ Week is a fantastic opportunity to recognise and thank each and every one of our volunteers for the time, compassion and skills they generously give. We are truly grateful for their contribution. We couldn’t do it without them.”
Gurmit continues:
“The voluntary services is very well supported but we do have a few volunteering positions available in the Emergency Department on evenings or weekends and also a couple of ward retail trolley roles available. If you would like to find out more about these roles please contact me on 01535 225316 or email gurmit.jauhal@nhs.net.”
The Trust also has many more supporters and volunteers, including those who support the Airedale Hospital & Community Charity and those who also support individual wards and departments.
‘Foluke Ajayi, Chief Executive of Airedale NHS Foundation Trust says:
“Volunteers play an incredibly important role in supporting our patients, visitors and staff every single day at Airedale. Whether they’re offering a warm welcome, helping someone find their way, or providing support in busy clinical areas, their kindness and dedication make a real difference to people’s experience of care. They are a valued part of Team Airedale.”
