Work of volunteers celebrated at Health and Social Care Moray event

VOLUNTEERS in Moray were given richly-deserved recognition at an event in Elgin last weekend.

As part of Volunteers' Week, which ran from June 1 until June 7, more than 30 people in Moray were recognised for their work in the voluntary sector.

Health and Social Care Moray, the partnership of Moray Council and NHS Grampian, came together to host an event to recognise the contribution volunteers make across the area.

The event, hosted at the Harvest Centre, saw 34 certificates handed out to people who have gone out of their way to help others.

Gillian Pirie, Moray Council's volunteer development officer, said: "This is usually an annual event but this was the first since pre-Covid so it was really nice to get everybody back together and meet new volunteers.

"It was nice for volunteers from different areas of Moray to meet and learn how diverse volunteering roles in Moray can be.

"The event was relaxed, informal and the volunteers had a good time. It was really lovely to be able to show them our appreciation for their hard work."

Alison Lowes, NHS Grampian's volunteer coordinator for Moray, added: "Volunteer’s Week gave us a chance to recognise the fantastic contribution volunteers make to our communities and say thank you.

"Our NHS volunteers who support our patients and services across Moray all contribute greatly to supporting and improving our patients' journeys with us and are an important part of our team."

The event was attended by around 50 people, with 34 certificates handed out. Hazel Christie – the longest-serving volunteer – was presented with flowers and 20-year long-service award.

Hazel has been volunteering at Cedarwood Day Centre every Monday for the past two decades, where she helps the chef prepare for lunch time.

Edweena Hayes, volunteer support officer in Moray, added: "The staff are always telling me how good Hazel is and how much her help is appreciated.

"She's a great baker, she's reliable, she's always happy to help and always had a big smile on her face, regardless of what she's doing. Hazel was ecstatic with the award."

In addition to Hazel, 12 volunteers were presented with certificates for 10 years of voluntary week, 11 were presented with five-year certificates and 10 with three-year certificates.

Information on the range of opportunities available through the council and with Health & Social Care Moray can be found at www.moray.gov.uk/moray_standard/page_59921.html

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