Hospice recognises long-serving staff and volunteers

Treetops Hospice has held a celebration event at which it honoured staff and volunteers for giving more than 400 years of combined service.

At the Risley-based end-of-life charity’s Long Service Awards, 50 staff and volunteers were presented with five and 10-year awards, and one extra-special 25-year award was presented to volunteer gardener, Anne Hopkinson.

Anne, 67, from Risley, said: “It feels unbelievable to get this award. I don’t know where the 25 years has gone.

“I’ve had lots of different roles and seen a lot of change.

“I’ve met some wonderful patients and staff over the years and have many fond memories.

“I can’t walk anywhere locally without meeting someone I know through Treetops!

“I feel part of a family. Even when the weather’s bad, I still want to come and help. I’d encourage anyone to give volunteering a go.”

Wendy Williams, a 62-year-old healthcare assistant from Mickleover, also received her 10-year award.

Wendy is part of the Treetops Wellbeing at Home team, providing care to local patients who prefer to remain at home during their final days.

She said: “I really enjoy going out to support patients in their own home, where they are choosing to die, rather than in hospital.

“Just sitting and listening to someone is really important. Patients can find it hard to open up to their families about coming to the end of their life, so they have the chance to express their feelings to us.

“It doesn’t feel like I’ve been here 10 years. It’s gone quickly, but I suppose when you really enjoy your job, you’re not counting the days or weeks or years.”

Anyone interest in volunteering at Treetops should e-mail volunteer@treetops.org.uk, call 0115 949 1264, or visit http://www.treetops.org.uk/volunteering.