A DEDICATED volunteer has been shortlisted for a national award in recognition of her contribution to connecting patients with their loved ones during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Alison Lawrence, a former volunteer who is now voluntary services deputy manager, is a finalist for ‘Volunteer Leader of the Year’ at the Helpforce Champions Awards 2021. 

She has been shortlisted in this category for being an outstanding role model, reflecting the care our volunteers provide for our patients, their families and our people.

Alison’s work includes helping to coordinate virtual visits, where patients can have precious video calls with their loved ones via video conferencing, and message to a loved one, where friends and relatives can send messages to inpatients by email or phone call. The messages are then collated and shared each day. 

Alison said: “I am overwhelmed to be shortlisted for this award – it means so much to me to have made a difference to patients and their families during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“I knew straight away that I wanted to be part of the frontline. I was previously a clinical safety facilitator for patient safety, experience and quality and wanted to do all I could to help. I am proud of how virtual visiting has developed and I am excited to continue to enhance the voluntary services we provide.”

Phillipa Haslehurst, voluntary services manager at The Princess Alexandra Hospital NHS Trust, said: “Alison arrived in the virtual visiting team as a piece of the jigsaw. Her ability to pause what she’s doing and listen to everyone is a phenomenal asset and ultimately reflects what our team is based on – kindness.

“Her professionalism, compassion and care for everyone she works with has ensured that these services have continued to grow.”

Sharon McNally, director of nursing, midwifery and allied health professionals at The Princess Alexandra Hospital NHS Trust, added: “It is fantastic that Alison has been recognised in this way – her enthusiasm and commitment to putting our patients at the heart of our services is wonderful.

“Well done Alison – we are looking forward to the final announcement.”

The winners will be announced on Helpforce’s website and social media channels on 30 October.