Heartbeat: Valued volunteer says goodbye as she heads for the Isle of Wight

October 18, 2021

Recently, Heartbeat had the pleasure of meeting with Janet Summers as she bid a fond farewell to the volunteering team to embark on a move to the Isle of Wight to be closer to her family.

Janet, who celebrated her 80th birthday in January this year has been with the Trust longer than she can remember and has dedicated many hours of her time volunteering. She told Heartbeat: “I’ve been with the Trust right from the beginning, and have taken part in pretty much all areas of volunteering here. I’ve always had an interest in caring for others and since the passing of my husband eight years ago I wanted to fill my time by giving back in any way that I can.”

Janet explains how she has seen lots of changes over time, in the way things are done, how technology has progressed and how processes have become more efficient.

Janet has undoubtedly always had a caring nature and an interest in caring for others right from the very start of her career. She has worked as an auxiliary nurse, a care assistant in a residential home, a social worker and a volunteer – Janet has always wanted to give back to those in need.

From offering drinks to patients, sitting and chatting to them and lending a listening ear, Janet has loved her time working and volunteering at the Trust. She added: “It’s not just the patients I’ve enjoyed spending time with, it’s the staff too. Everyone is so hardworking and the staff really are just excellent.

“It has been a little daunting to pack up and move from Wednesbury but after being alone for so long and turning 80 in January, it’s time to be closer to my children. If I wasn’t moving to the Isle of Wight, I’d love to stay and continue volunteering – but I think it would be quite a commute from there!”

Liza Gill, Volunteer Service Manager said: “Janet has been a true gem in supporting the clinics and the various volunteering placements that she has supported in, always full of cheer, love, kindness and ready to help where needed.”

Thank you Janet for you hard work and dedication to the NHS and to the Trust, we wish you all the best in your move to the Isle of Wight.