VOLUNTEERS at West Midlands Ambulance Service (WMAS) have been thanked for the thousands of hours they dedicate to supporting patients, staff and communities across the region.
From responding to life-threatening emergencies and supporting patients with transport, to providing wellbeing support for colleagues and helping shape the future of the Trust, volunteers play a vital role in the delivery of the ambulance service throughout the West Midlands.
The Trust is supported by a diverse network of volunteers, including 494 community first responders (CFRs) who have volunteered more than 118,764 hours in the last 12 months of immediate care in their local communities, 30 volunteer doctors, 11 volunteer car drivers who support the Patient Transport Service by helping patients attend appointments and return home safely, 66 SALS Advisors who offer confidential peer support and guidance to colleagues experiencing challenges in work or life, five Faith and Spiritual Wellbeing Team volunteers, over 180 staff volunteers who undertake additional voluntary roles alongside their substantive positions, including but not limited to wellbeing champions, menopause champions, Freedom to Speak Up champions and Network leads and 17 governors who represent patients, staff and communities, helping ensure local voices influence the Trust’s decisions and future direction.
Together, WMAS volunteers help improve patient care, support colleagues and strengthen links with local communities.
Anthony Marsh, chief executive officer at WMAS, said: “Volunteers are at the heart of so much of what we do. Whether they are responding to emergencies, supporting patients, looking after colleagues or helping guide the future of our organisation, their commitment and generosity make an enormous difference every single day.
“Volunteers’ Week provides a wonderful opportunity to recognise and thank every one of our volunteers for their dedication, professionalism and compassion.
“We are incredibly grateful for everything they do on behalf of our patients, communities and staff.”
