Northampton General Hospital's oldest volunteer celebrates her 90th birthday

STAFF JOINED GILLIAN AT HER WELCOME DESK TO CELEBRATE HER 90TH BIRTHDAY

Staff members at Northampton General Hospital were lucky enough to join in with birthday celebrations of long serving volunteer, Gillian Welch, who has celebrated her 90^th Birthday while volunteering at her regular spot on the Billing Road entrance welcome desk. Staff at the hospital joined together to wish Gillian a happy birthday, share birthday cake and present a small gift.

Gillian has volunteered for Northampton General Hospital since the year 2000, when her partner encouraged her to join as a volunteer, Gillian said “I was always concerned and nervous when visiting the hospital, and if I’m completely honest, not much has changed. But volunteering has certainly improved my confidence.

"I’ve always provided a service on the welcome desk of the billing road entrance. I have loved meeting new people, and seeing regulars who I often chat with on their arrival over the past 19 years. It’s especially rewarding to know that you are putting people at ease when they may be feeling nervous about an imminent medical procedure or appointment.”

Gillian celebrated the big milestone with a tea party at the Cogenhoe church rooms over the weekend, with over 60 people in attendance, who Gillian had met during different eras of her life. The room was decorated by her children, who were said to have completely transformed the room.

Emma Wimpress, Head of Volunteer Services said “We would like to wish Gillian a very happy 90^th Birthday. We are delighted that she dedicates her Wednesday morning to the hospital each week and we always receive such positive feedback from visitors and staff about her kind nature. We are also delighted that she has chosen to spend time with us today.”

People who would like to find out more about volunteering at Northampton General Hospital can explore the many roles available at https://www.northamptongeneral.nhs.uk/Volunteering.