A dedicated volunteer who has spent over two decades serving a Worcestershire hospice, has been honoured with a prestigious award.
Anne Robertson, who lives in Hanley Swan, was nominated by St Richard’s Hospice to receive the accolade – which is titled Badge of the Order of Mercy – and recently received it at a special ceremony held at The Mansion House in London.
The award recognises the work of volunteers who have spent at least seven years working to support others, including those living with an incurable illness. This year only 25 medals were awarded to volunteers from around the country.
Mrs Robertson started volunteering for St Richard’s in 2001 and has since dedicated her time through a variety of roles. From 2002 Anne has volunteered with the hospice Family Support Team. She has supported many patients, their families and carers before and through bereavement.
Head of the St Richard’s Family Support Service, Sarah Popplestone-Helm said: “We’re delighted and honoured that Anne has received such recognition from the League of Mercy Foundation. The award really celebrates the care, skill and passion for palliative care that Anne has given as a volunteer over many years.”
Sarah added: “Anne is an outstanding ambassador of hospice care and her dedication and service to St Richard’s are truly exceptional.”
Mrs Robertson said: ”I feel deeply honoured that people had taken the trouble to put me forward and then that it had been accepted by the League of Mercy. It was certainly completely unexpected and a genuine, wonderful surprise.
“I never cease to feel privileged that people will share their deepest pain and anxiety with me, a stranger, and who will talk to me about this life-changing event.”
The Rt Hon the Lord Lingfield, President of the League of Mercy said: “Mrs Robertson is a marvellous example of someone whose longstanding and voluntary dedication to the service and welfare of others is noteworthy and remarkable and we were delighted to be able to make this well-deserved award to her.”
St Richard’s Hospice is an independent charity offering free, expert care for adults with an illness that cannot be cured, and support for their loved ones and carers.
Each year the hospice team supports more than 3,100 patients, family members and bereaved people in Worcestershire.
It will cost in the region of £12m to run the hospice this year, which includes patient care and all the necessary support services.
St Richard’s relies on voluntary support, including from donations, gifts in Wills, retail and events for the majority of its income with the remainder funded by the NHS.