A committed Carers’ Resource volunteer has received a long service award in recognition of his dedication to the charity.
Keith Duerden, 69, has spent 10 years as a volunteer for the charity’s Home From Hospital (HFH) service, supporting clients in the Bradford area.
Following a family bereavement in 2012, Keith decided to retire early at the age of 59.
Later that year he spotted an article in a local newspaper about a Carers’ Resource open day, and he went along to find out about the volunteering opportunities available.
This is when he found out about the HFH service. Keith was impressed by the work of the service, and decided he wanted to become a volunteer to support the HFH team.
Ten years later, Keith still really enjoys being a volunteer with the service.
He said: “I enjoy meeting and getting to know people from different walks of life and building a rapport with them.
“It gives you a good feeling that you have been able to support them.”
Speaking about what his voluntary role involves, Keith explained: “I might just visit the client and have a cup of tea with them. I might pick them up and take them to a hospital appointment. I might take shopping to them.”
Keith was presented with his long service award at a HFH team meeting where his achievement was celebrated.
Shelley Marshall, HFH Service Manager, said: “Keith has supported many clients who have been in hospital for a variety of reasons. His friendly approach and ability to engage clients has meant that they build a rapport quickly and feel at ease with him. He is someone who never judges a person and will give his all to try and help them to live independently and remain in their own homes with confidence.”
The HFH team help people to be more confident and comfortable when returning home from hospital. The service can ease a return home, helping rebuild confidence and independence, and preventing hospital re-admission.
