Hospital volunteers praised at Ballina conference
The Parliamentary Secretary for Regional Health, Melinda Pavey, MLC has praised the contributions of thousands of volunteers who donate their time in NSW public hospitals and community health services.
Mrs Pavey attended the United Hospital Auxiliaries (UHA) 78th Annual Conference today at the Ballina RSL Club to congratulate the volunteers for their considerable contribution.
“The continued dedication of UHA volunteers enhances the experience of patients, their families and communities in NSW Health Services,” Mrs Pavey said.
As a result of the work done by Auxiliary members, more than $9.2 million has been raised for NSW Health Services. Over the last financial year, more than 6000 UHA volunteers worked a combined total of more than 800,000 hours.
“This is a significant achievement and I would like to thank the UHA volunteers for the important work they do in both fundraising and providing support and comfort to patients,” she said.
Activities undertaken by UHA volunteers include:
Providing patient care and support services such as the Grandparents Program, flower arranging, clothes washing, letter writing and shopping.
Fundraising activities such as cake and jam stalls, kiosks, gift shops, fashion parades, car rallies and boot sales.
Day care support including patient transport, aerobics and art/craft groups.
The funds raised allow for the purchase a range of equipment and amenities for the benefit of patients, their carers, communities and staff.
The UHA was established in 1933 as the ‘peak’ body coordinating hospital auxiliaries across NSW.
