A volunteer who has made Living Well Centre patients feel welcome and valued has received a prestigious national award in recognition of her 20 years’ selfless support for Birmingham Hospice.
Joy Foster was invited to the League of Mercy Foundation’s Awards ceremony on Friday 3rd July at Haberdashers’ Hall in London and was presented with a special medal in honour of her devotion to the hospice.
with at the League of Mercy Awards
The 80-year-old attended with husband David and Lead Nurse for Day Services Julie Bennett and she was just one of 23 volunteers who were given the accolade. The ceremony celebrated volunteers from across the country who have gone the extra mile to help others.
Joy was presented with her medal by Lord Lingfield, who is President of the League of Mercy.
“I was very surprised, pleased and honoured to learn about the award; there were only 23 people across the country who received the award this year, so I feel very special.”
Joy has built a strong relationship with the hospice over 26 years, first as an Inpatient Unit nurse from 2000 to 2006 before returning to volunteer in a variety of roles soon after.
Her biggest impact has been in the Living Well Centre, where her reassuring presence helps patients who are lonely or isolated to feel welcome.
Joy has also raised thousands of pounds for Birmingham Hospice by taking part in an annual sponsored swim.
“The Living Well Centre is a place where people can be themselves, when they have illnesses other people don’t always understand,” she added.
“I went into nursing to help those who couldn’t help themselves and it’s great to continue this as a volunteer. Sitting, listening and just being there is a help for people.”
Joy was nominated by the hospice due to her consistent care and compassion for people with life-limiting conditions.
Julie Bennett said: “Congratulations to Joy on receiving the prestigious League of Mercy Award. It was a privilege to share this special day with you and your husband and to celebrate such a well-deserved recognition.”
Last year, 668 volunteers contributed around an astonishing 75,000 hours of work to Birmingham Hospice, which is the equivalent of 37 full-time members of staff.
Volunteers work in a wide variety of roles including in catering, Living Well Centres, spiritual and counselling support, Retail, Reception, our Hive cafés and administration.
Paul Bytheway, Birmingham Hospice Chief Executive, said: “Joy’s long record of service and compassion embodies the dedication and enthusiasm our volunteers show when they support Birmingham Hospice.
“We are incredibly grateful to all our volunteers who do so much to ensure we can continue to provide the care our patients need and deserve.”
