Mental Health volunteers recognised

To recognise National Volunteers’ Week, Hunter New England Health is hosting a morning tea to thank their valuable volunteers in mental health.

Hunter New England Mental Health Volunteer Manager Robyn Feenstra said the morning tea will be held at the Mater Hospital on Tuesday 10 May 2011.

“Mental health volunteers help us with a range of social activities as well as planning and co-ordinating events,” Ms Feenstra said.

“Our staff value the hard work of our dedicated volunteers and the benefits they bring to people with a mental illness. Staff appreciate the assistance they receive setting up activities and the valuable time volunteers spend speaking with patients. Newly recruited volunteers as well as long term volunteers will be part of the celebration.

“We have a great variety of volunteers from young university and TAFE students to older retired or semi-retired people who are looking to help the community.

“Volunteering makes everyone feel like they’re making a difference in someone’s life,” Ms Feenstra said.

New volunteer Michael O’Neill says he’s happy that his volunteering is helping the community.

“It’s only a few hours a week of my time but that means the world to the people we’re helping,” Mr O’Neill said.

If you’re interested in joining the Mental Health volunteers, please contact Volunteer Manager Robyn Feenstra on (02) 4033 5119.

Media opportunities exist by calling Abbey Wright on (02) 4921 4477.The morning tea is being held on Tuesday 10 May at 10am in the Level 4 Courtyard of Mental Health Administration, Mater Hospital. The event is closed to the general public, however media are welcome to attend.

Contact: Abbey Wright

Phone: (02) 4921 4477