Kent and Medway named top NHS trust for volunteering

Kent and Medway Mental Health NHS Trust has been ranked number one in the county for volunteering, following record-breaking support from the local community.

Newly published figures from NHS England reveal the trust now has the highest number of volunteers and the most hours donated of any NHS organisation in Kent. 

This surge in support from local residents and businesses is providing vital help to patients and staff, securing the trust's position as the regional leader for volunteer involvement.

At the Christmas volunteer celebration event, Kirsty McInnes, Charity and Volunteers Manager for Kent and Medway Mental Health NHS Trust thanked volunteers for their time, dedication and support for local mental health services.

Alongside individual volunteers, the trust is also supported by local businesses, whose staff share their skills and time to strengthen mental health services across Kent and Medway, helping to improve environments and enhance the experience of people using services

The trust currently offers around 50 different volunteer roles, giving people a wide range of opportunities to support services in meaningful ways. Roles include gardening and environmental projects, driving patients to and from appointments, supporting therapy sessions, assisting families and carers, providing ward-based support, and offering time, companionship and emotional support to service users

The contribution made by volunteers is invaluable, with many giving their time regularly to support patients, families and staff across Kent and Medway.

Kirsty McInnes, Charity and Volunteers Manager for Kent and Medway Mental Health NHS Trust, said:

“Volunteers have a significant role to play in helping us to deliver great care for the people we serve. Our Christmas celebration was a chance to say a huge thank you to every one of our volunteers, including the local businesses that generously share their time and skills with us. The support we receive from our community makes a real difference to the care we provide. This recognition reflects that collective effort, our volunteers are an essential part of our services and we could not do what we do without them.”

Shane and Jinja the Lurcher, who provide pet therapy on acute wards, said:

“Volunteering here is incredibly rewarding. I’ve been volunteering almost every week for nearly 12 years. Being thanked at the Christmas celebration meant a lot, and it’s great to feel part of a community that truly values the difference volunteers make. Visits from Jinja bring a ‘pawsitive’ atmosphere on the wards and help support recovery, improve wellbeing for patients and their loved ones, and give a real boost to staff.”

The trust is encouraging individuals and businesses who would like to support local mental health services to get involved.

More information about our volunteering opportunities and how to apply can be found here.