South Warwickshire NHS Foundation Trust have expressed their thanks to the dedicated Warwickshire 4x4 Volunteers Group for their ongoing support. The volunteer group have not only assisted the trust with bad weather conditions but also throughout the whole year, during the Covid-19 pandemic.

With over 150 enthusiastic volunteers, the group have offered crucial support to the trust during the snowy weather the area has seen over the last couple of weeks, helping healthcare staff get to hospitals and clinics despite heavy snowfall and flooding. Previously, the community spirited drivers have helped transport nurses to patient's homes to ensure local people received the treatment they needed.

This continued support has been more important than ever since the start of Covid-19. The group has assisted the trust by collecting and distributing personal protective equipment (PPE), distribution of various items of medical equipment and transportation of staff and patients, where clinics have been relocated.

This has resulted in the group completing a staggering 700 tasks for the trust, 600 during the spring/summer lockdown and 100 more during the recent snow, which has been invaluable at a time when healthcare has had to adapt.

Rachel Williams, Associate Director of Operations at South Warwickshire NHS Foundation Trust said: "I would like to personally offer my sincere thanks to all of the 4x4 Volunteers Group who have not only helped our staff get to and from work safely in the recent snow fall, but who have also offered that extra support throughout the whole of the Covid-19 pandemic.

"The volunteers help ensure our vital services can continue to run effectively and that our staff remain safe."

Graeme Wright, Lead Volunteer Coordinator, said: "I am constantly overwhelmed by the team of volunteers who always show great enthusiasm and generosity to help ease the pressure on NHS staff, whether this be driving staff in the snow or helping with COVID-19 related tasks. The volunteers take great pride in being able to help NHS professionals maintain vital services."

If you are interested in finding out more about becoming a volunteer please contact Graeme Wright, Lead Volunteer Coordinator, by emailing [email protected].

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