Northern Trust celebrates over 225 volunteers during inspiring Ballymena event

Some of the Northern Trust’s Macmillan volunteers who attended the celebration.

The Northern Health and Social Care Trust recently marked Volunteers’ Week with a heartfelt celebration, recognising the remarkable contributions of more than 225 volunteers who give their time and skills to support patients and services across the Trust’s 35 locations.

Volunteers play a vital role across a wide range of services — from providing cancer support and bereavement counselling, to assisting in day centres and with individuals facing specific health challenges.

Their impact was centre stage during a recent celebratory event held in Ballymena, designed to thank them for their dedication and passion.

Paula Marshall and Louise Gillespie from the Northern Trust’s volunteer service.

Volunteer Manager Paula Marshall paid tribute to the Trust’s growing volunteer community, commenting:

“We are very proud to continue to grow our volunteer community, and we now have over 225 volunteers involved in 15 different services across 35 different locations where they add real value every day.

“Our celebration event was a chance for everyone to reflect on the importance of volunteering and to recognise the value of their time, passion and skills.

“Our volunteers are invaluable and we want them to know just how much we appreciate them, and how important their roles are right across the Trust.”

Ciara McNickle from Causeway Volunteer Centre and Michele McKeown from Mid-Ulster Volunteer Centre pictured at the volunteer event.

The event featured a Desert Island Discs-style interview hosted by Andy Cooper of Causeway Hospital Radio, who chatted with the Trust’s Executive Director of Nursing, Suzanne Pullins.

The evening ended on a high note as her chosen favourite song – Shang-a-Lang by The Bay City Rollers – had attendees clapping along.

Another highlight came from an inspirational panel, where Nicola McAleese (Macmillan Volunteer Coordinator), Geraldine Canning (volunteer complementary therapist), and Lauren and George Buick from The Base in Ballycastle shared their personal journeys in volunteering.

Macmillan Volunteer Coordinator Nicola McAleese, volunteer complementary therapist Geraldine Canning and Lauren and George Buick from The Base in Ballycastle participated in an inspiration panel and shared their unique experiences in volunteering.

Adding a dose of furry joy to the evening was Pickle, a golden retriever and part of the Trust’s newly launched Pets as Therapy pilot project. Owner Gillian explained how Pickle helps soothe patients and offers emotional comfort, especially for those missing pets at home.

Winnie Duncan from Pets as Therapy also shared insight on the wider health benefits of pet companionship:

“The companionship of a pet can aid recovery, stimulate conversation, encourage movement and social interaction and improve overall wellbeing.”

Pickle the golden retriever with his owner Gillian and Winnie Duncan from Pets as Therapy.

Reflecting on the success of the evening, Paula Marshall added:

“It was a really uplifting and inspiring event, and I want to say a huge thank you to everyone who took part in any way, and helped to make it such a success.”

Those interested in becoming a volunteer with the Northern Trust can stay updated via its social media channels or check for opportunities through Volunteer Now and the Causeway or Mid Ulster Volunteer Centres.

Nicola McAleese and Sharon O’Donnell pictured at the volunteer celebration.

Nicola McAleese, Joanne Currie and Sharon O’Donnell pictured at the volunteer celebration.

Cutting the celebration cake, left-right, Paula Marshall, Jacqui Reid, Suzanne Pullins, Louise Gillespie and Lynsey McVitty.

For more information, email volunteer.service@northerntrust.hscni.net.