Rebuilding Friendships in the hospital community

On 27th June, the Friends were delighted to hold a half day event in the restaurant at the hospital.

Five of the long-standing volunteers have recorded their stories of volunteering as part of the “Friends Voices’’ project, and Friday was the opportunity to show those stories with the wider hospital

Postcards were available to share the stories.

Sweets were also there, around every table, and the story of the League of Friends over the years was shared with each persons. Attached to each packet of sweets was a business card, encouraging people to keep in touch and get involved.

During the day we spoke to about 100 people. People were aware of the shop but interested in the wider story. Many actually thought the League of Friends had closed, and were excited to discover it is still active. Without exception, people asked if we would reopen the shop in the atrium.

Chatting to Ruth Joyce, she was delighted with the day and its different formats, which had meant that the Friends had spoken with so many people and been able to share their past, present, and hopes for the future.