Celebrating the incredible contribution of our volunteers during Volunteers' Week

As we mark Volunteers' Week (1-7 June 2026), County Durham and Darlington NHS Foundation Trust would like to extend a huge thank you to all of our dedicated volunteers who make a real difference to patients, families, carers, visitors and staff every day.

Volunteers play a vital role across our hospitals and community services, complementing the work of healthcare professionals and helping to provide the best possible experience for those using our services.

We currently have around 140 volunteers supporting the Trust in a wide range of roles. From hospital radio presenters and patient drivers to ward helpers and patient experience volunteers, each person generously gives their time to support others and enhance the care and compassion we provide.

Bringing comfort through music

One of our longest-serving volunteers is therapeutic musician Elizabeth Howe, who has been volunteering at the Trust since 2016.

Elizabeth plays a 49-string chromatic lyre and provides therapeutic music sessions for patients at University Hospital of North Durham and Chester-le-Street Community Hospital.

 

 

She said: "I have been volunteering therapeutic music in University Hospital of North Durham since 2016. My instrument is a 49-string chromatic lyre.

"I currently play in Chester-le-Street Hospital Ward 1 and Ward 1 and 5 at University Hospital of North Durham. My training is for all patient conditions.

"I am open for requests from other wards. Enquiries are through the Patient Safety & Experience Team.”

Her calming performances help create a soothing environment for patients and can provide comfort during what may be a difficult time.

Building confidence while giving back

Friends and Family Feedback Volunteer Calister Oyekunle joined the Trust in January 2026 and quickly discovered the positive impact volunteering can have, both on others and on personal development.

Calister said: "I started volunteering with the NHS in January 2026 because I wanted to build my confidence and give something back to my community. I was nervous on my first day and didn't know what to expect, but the staff welcomed me with so much support that I immediately felt at ease."

Volunteers like Calister help gather valuable patient feedback that supports service improvement and ensures patients' voices are heard.

Award-winning hospital radio team

Our volunteers also help keep patients entertained and connected through Durham Hospitals Radio, which recently received national recognition at the Hospital Broadcasting Association Annual Conference and National Hospital Radio Awards in March 2026.

The team celebrated three award successes:

• Gold – Best Newcomer: Cat Brannigan-Uren
• Bronze – Station of the Year: Durham Hospitals Radio
• Bronze – Female Presenter of the Year: Eileen Thompson

The achievements were later recognised when Mary Foy MP visited the studio to present the trophies to the team.

Thank you to all our volunteers

Every volunteer brings something unique to the Trust, helping to improve experiences for patients and their loved ones while supporting our staff and services.

During Volunteers' Week, we would like to thank each and every volunteer for their dedication, kindness and commitment. Their contribution is greatly valued and appreciated by patients, colleagues and communities across County Durham and Darlington.