Equans team launch corporate volunteering at Rotherham Hospital

A dedicated cohort of volunteers got their hands dirty to enhance the facilities for patients and staff at Rotherham Hospital.

A team of 20 volunteers from Equans UK and Ireland took part in The Rotherham NHS Foundation Trust’s first corporate volunteering scheme in September. They put their green fingers to the test, removing weeds and preening shrubs from gardens and internal courtyards.

Kerri White, Social Value Manager at Equans, said: “When the opportunity arose for Equans to partner with The Rotherham NHS Foundation Trust on this volunteering project, our teams jumped at the chance to get their hands dirty and bring to life some of the previously unloved areas around the hospital.

“The guys who volunteered were so proud of the results they achieved and know they have made a real difference to patients and their families. Volunteering has brought a real sense of togetherness to our teams and it’s something I’d encourage all local employers to get involved in. Equans are proud to be associated with the Trust and the amazing work they undertake for the people of Rotherham; we look forward to volunteering with them once again in the near future.”

The two-day event was organised by the Rotherham Hospital and Community Charity and the Trust’s estates team to provide businesses and community groups like Equans, a multi-technical services company based in Wath-Upon-Dearne, the opportunity to give something back to the NHS.

Businesses hoping to enhance their Corporate Social Responsibility opportunities for their employees can now volunteer at the Trust in a variety of ways, whether it’s sprucing up gardens, painting communal areas and family rooms or supporting charity fundraising and marketing.

Rachael Dawes, Head of Fundraising, said: “The trailblazing team of volunteers from Equans generously agreed to be our volunteer guinea pigs and they certainly impressed us with their hard work and determination to make the hospital environment more welcoming. It was great to see colleagues from across the company come together to do something amazing for their local NHS. Their team spirit was really inspiring and we’d love to offer the same opportunity to others in future.”

For more information about volunteering at The Rotherham NHS Foundation Trust or about fundraising for the charity, please call 01709 426821 or email trft.charity@nhs.net