To coincide with ‘Volunteer Week’ which runs from 1-7 June 2011, The Stroke Association charity has taken the opportunity to recognise the support and commitment received from its volunteers through a series of celebration events throughout Northern Ireland. It is also calling for new volunteers to help improve the quality of life of the thousands of stroke survivors currently within Northern Ireland.

 

The Stroke Association is the only UK wide charity solely dedicated to combating stroke in people of all ages. Its services directly help people affected by stroke and their families and carers. It raises essential funds and sponsor research into prevention, treatment and better methods of rehabilitation. It also campaigns, educates and informs to increase knowledge and understanding of stroke at all levels of society.

 

Mayors from thirteen District Council areas will be attending celebratory events at the Association’s Stroke Support Group venues across the country where they will present certificates to a number of volunteers.

 

The Stroke Association Northern Ireland Director, Tom Richardson states;

 

“Our organisation could not operate successfully without the volunteers who help us provide support to the thousands of stroke survivors across Northern Ireland. On behalf of The Stroke Association NI, I would like to publicly thank all our volunteers for their dedication, commitment and continued hard work. We are delighted that the Deputy Mayor, Alderman Victor Robinson attended our Newtownabbey event and presented certificates to the local volunteers as well as having the opportunity to meet some our the Stroke Support Group members.

 

“Although we are thankful for the fantastic volunteers we have, we still need the help and support of many more volunteers to help us effectively raise awareness of stroke and deliver our services. There are many ways to support us but we currently need student or qualified nurses, doctors, ambulance staff, anyone in the medical field who could give up some of their time to help out with our blood pressure check events. High blood pressure is one of key risks of stroke and so these events are vitally important.”    

So why should you volunteer? Volunteering is ultimately about helping others and having an impact on people’s wellbeing. What better way is there to connect with your local community and give a little back? There are many reasons why people choose to volunteer with a charity, Whether its to help people, learn new skills or put existing ones to use, gain confidence, create a sense of personal reward or to socialise, your support is vital to the success of the organisation and our services.

Through volunteering with The Stroke Association NI you will hopefully gain satisfaction knowing that your support will make such a significant difference to not only the work of The Stroke Association but to the lives of stroke survivors and their families. There are many ways to volunteer such as being an ambassador by giving talks and help creating awareness of stroke, become a campaigner and help us lobby local government, help raise funds by organising events, share your story by becoming a media volunteer or help with transport by offering your time and car to provide safe access to group meetings and outings for stroke survivors.

 

Anyone over the age of 16, whatever their race or religion can volunteer. Whatever your reason for volunteering, The Stroke Association NI would greatly welcome your support.

 

For further information or to express an interest in volunteering with The Stroke Association NI, please contact Janice Kirkpatrick on 028 9050 8029 or email janice.kirkpatrick@stroke.org.uk