Alan Lovatt – Charity Champion or Volunteer of the Year nominee

Alan Lovatt – Charity Champion or Volunteer of the Year nominee

Alan Lovatt began volunteering after his mother sadly passed away and he wanted to give something back to the people who cared for her.

A decade later and the 70-year-old, from Cheadle, is still volunteering at the Royal Stoke’s Cardiology Department.

The retired BT engineer aims to be a friendly face and to improve the experience of patients.

He said: “I saw the amazing care my mum had and I just felt I wanted to do something in return. I had the choice of a few departments and thought the Cath Lab sounded interesting, and they made me so welcome that I’ve stayed ever since.

“A typical day involves offering a mix of refreshments, chatting with patients and helping ease nerves. Sometimes patients seem more comfortable talking to someone who isn’t in scrubs.

“The best part about volunteering at UHNM is seeing people and feeling like you’re helping someone.”

Amy Lo, cardiology service manager, said: “He makes a massive difference to our patients and to the team. Whether it’s providing food and drinks, helping patients find lost items or assisting with patient surveys, his service is invaluable. Dedicating a decade’s worth of Tuesdays is something we’re incredibly grateful for.”

Alan has recently been joined by his wife Christine, who joined UHNM as a volunteer a year ago supporting the Palliative Care Team on Mondays by putting memory boxes together.

Alan has been recognised with a UHNM volunteer services award and has now been nominated in the Charity Champion or Volunteer of the Year category of The Your Heroes Awards.

Becci Thompson, volunteer co-ordinator, said: “Alan’s dedication over the past ten years is truly inspiring. Volunteers like him make a real difference every day, offering support, compassion and a friendly face to our patients, and we are incredibly grateful to Alan and all our volunteers for the time, care and commitment they give.”