A Carlisle man has reached a volunteering milestone with the NHS.
Eric Clarke signed up to the NHS and Care Volunteer Responders programme on New Year’s Day in 2021 and has completed over 700 volunteering tasks in that time.
Eric has completed hundreds of steward volunteering shifts at his local COVID-19 vaccination sites, ensuring clinics run as smoothly as possible and offering a warm welcome and additional support to people coming for their vaccine. Eric’s efforts saw him receive a Coronation Champions Award last year, after being nominated by a nurse at one of the vaccination sites he supported.
Eric has returned to this role for every COVID-19 seasonal vaccination programme over the last three years.
When he’s not at a vaccination site, Eric can often be found at the A&E department at Carlisle’s Cumberland Infirmary A&E, providing support to ambulance crews, by offering drivers a friendly chat and refreshments in his ambulance support role.
Eric said: “I have truly enjoyed every moment of volunteering. I know I am doing something worthwhile. I am meeting and helping many people and making lots of new friends in the process. I have also gained new skills and made some wonderful memories that will stay with me for many years to come. For me, volunteering has been life-changing.
“I’d most definitely recommend volunteering. There are so many different types of volunteer activities available, all necessary and worthwhile. You can choose what activities you want to do and when you want to do them.”
Sam Ward OBE, deputy CEO of Royal Voluntary Service, said: “Completing 700 tasks is a highly impressive accomplishment, and we are incredibly proud and thankful for Eric’s efforts. His hard work has undeniably made a positive impact in Carlisle, supporting the NHS, healthcare teams, and those most vulnerable in his community.
“I’d encourage anyone feeling inspired to give back to visit our website and become a volunteer today. Whether you go on to complete one task, or one thousand, a single action can be all it takes to make a difference.”
Volunteering with NHS and Care Volunteer Responders is completely flexible and is managed through the GoodSAM smartphone app.
For more details and how to sign up visit https://nhscarevolunteerresponders.org/
