A MOTHER who tragically lost her son to cancer and a man whose wife suffered a stroke now help out at hospitals to help them heal. Moira Bateman and Michael Greenhow are two of more than 200 volunteers across the Mid and South Essex Hospitals’ Trust, having recently returned to help at Basildon and Southend Hospitals following the lockdowns of the past year. 72-year-old Moira said her work has been a “lifeline” and helped her “focus on other things” after she lost her youngest son Tim last year at the age of 43. She has been a volunteer at the hospital for almost 20 years, returning to volunteering in her role as an information desk volunteer in the main Tower Block outpatients.
MAAC thanks volunteers. Pic: Jermane Clarke THE Midlands Air Ambulance Charity (MAAC) is thanking its team of volunteers and encouraging new recruits as part of National Volunteers’ Week celebrations. The charity, which turned 30 years old in May, is already planning further anniversary celebrations for its family of more than 220 volunteers and supporters. Volunteers’ Week, which takes place from June 1 to June 7 is a time to showcase those selfless individuals who support vital charities and organisations. MAAC relies on volunteers to assist with Covid-safe fundraising activities, ranging from hosting events and supporting in the charity shops to attending networking sessions, providing talks and receiving cheques at presentations.
From taking part in the Community Speed Watch scheme to training to become volunteer vaccinators, community minded individuals have been making a difference across Essex.