05 June 2026
More than 200 volunteers who give thousands of hours of their time to help patients and staff at the Royal Shrewsbury Hospital (RSH) and the Princess Royal Hospital (PRH) have been thanked for their incredible support.
Their dedication was celebrated during Volunteers’ Week, a national celebration, which started on Monday 1 June and runs throughout the week.
There are currently 217 active volunteers who support patients, their families and staff at The Shrewsbury and Telford Hospital Trust (SaTH) which runs RSH and PRH Collectively, they contributed almost 25,000 hours of service within the last year.
The volunteers come from a wide range of backgrounds, and the roles range from greeting patients at the hospital entrance, offering telephone support to patients who have recently returned home, to helping in the Emergency Departments.
Alan Aspinall is a volunteer buggy driver at RSH. He assists patients who arrive at the Treatment Centre and drives them across the hospital site to their various outpatient clinic appointments on an electric buggy.
Inspired to give back after receiving care himself, Alan said: “I find volunteering so uplifting. I often see the relief on patients’ faces when I offer help and a lift, especially for those who find the distance difficult.”
Good friends Daisy Rigby and Nikki Smith volunteer together as part of the meet and greet team at RSH, welcoming patients and visitors at the main ward entrance.
Daisy, who has volunteered for six years, began during the Covid pandemic to “do my bit through such difficult times”. Nikki, who was encouraged to join by Daisy after leaving work due to a chronic illness, said “A simple smile or hello can ease anxiety and make a real difference”, with Daisy adding: “If you are thinking about becoming a volunteer, just do it.”
James Webb, Head of Risk Management, volunteers in his spare time as an evening discharge driver, helping patients return home from Hollinswood House in Telford. Having worked in the NHS for 18 years, James says the role gives him valuable insight into patient experience beyond his desk job. Since starting in October 2025, he has come to appreciate the personal stories behind each journey and the impact of timely transport, with patients and families grateful to get home sooner. James said: “It is a great feeling that I can make a positive difference to people’s lives.”
Julia Clarke, Director of Public Participation, said: “Our volunteers play a vital role in the experience we provide to patients, families and visitors every day. Whether it’s offering a warm welcome, a listening ear or practical support, they help create a more compassionate and reassuring environment. We are incredibly grateful for the time, energy and kindness they bring.”
Jo Williams, Group Chief Executive, said: “We are proud of the contribution our volunteers make across our hospitals and community services. They are a valued part of our teams, supporting patients at some of the most important moments in their lives. Their dedication and commitment make a real difference, and we thank every one of them for everything they do.”
If you would like to find out more about volunteering at SaTH, please visit: Volunteering at Shrewsbury and Telford Hospital NHS Trust (sath.nhs.uk).