National awards recognise Macmillan volunteers

Volunteers with the Trust's Macmillan Cancer Support and Information Service in Peterlee have been recognised with national awards.

The awards were presented to the volunteers during a jubilee celebration event in June. As well as long service awards, the headwear service was recognised and an individual inspirational volunteer award was presented.

Graham Morris Easington MP attended the event alongside a national representative from Macmillan and the Trust's cancer support team.

 Lee Mack, Associate Director Health and Wellbeing said: "It's a privilege to meet and recognise such a supportive group of volunteers, who have been recognised nationally by Macmillan, for the incredible work they do with people affected by cancer. Working within some of our most deprived communities, our Macmillan volunteers support people facing huge health and social challenges.  Our volunteers enable people to manage their illness and its associated difficulties at one of the most difficult times of their lives.

 The Deborah Hutton award, awarded to The Jessica's Headwear Service Volunteers, is for volunteers who provide practical support and care to people affected by cancer, beyond the expectation of their role.

Anne Suki, one of the volunteers to receive an award said: "I love to volunteer for the Macmillan Information Centre to be able to give something back to the local community. My family are so proud of me and the awards I received; I didn't expect them, and it's so lovely to know that I am making a difference."

The Vicky Clement-Jones award is for volunteers who have, or have had cancer themselves, and make a significant difference to the lives of people with cancer. Greg Hart was presented with this award. Greg has been a volunteer with the service since September 2009 joining after his own experience of cancer. Greg's proactive approach has ensured the success of the service and built strong foundations to enable it to continue. He has shared his experiences with other volunteers and they now have the confidence and shared enthusiasm to establish other similar outreach services in different venues. Not afraid of the limelight, Greg has been central to a number of advertising campaigns sharing his story with others.

Long service award volunteers

Back row l-r : Rhoda Dodds, Margaret Walker, Anne Denham

Front row l-r: Edna Connor, Anne Suki, Tracey Hutchinson

The Vicky Clement-Jones Award

Grahame Morris, MP; Stephen Guy, Macmillan Development Manager; Lee Mack, Associate Director Health and well-being; Greg Hart, Cancer Information and Support Volunteer and recipient