A BARNSLEY ‘super’ volunteer has been nominated for a Proud of Barnsley Hospital Hero award.
Yvonne Moreland has been volunteering at Barnsley Hospital for 19 years, the last ten of which have been with the hospital charity.
“I first got involved when I was at a low ebb, didn’t have a job and was a carer for my husband and father,” she said.
“I needed to do something for me and, although it can be quite demanding, I love what I do.”
The nomination from former fundraising officer with the hospital charity, Sam Bentley, said: “Yvonne is, without question, one of the most dedicated, selfless and inspiring individuals I’ve ever had the privilege of working alongside.
“She truly goes above and beyond not just for the hospital, but for the entire Barnsley community as in her spare time she volunteers further afield.
“Yvonne has been volunteering at Barnsley Hospital for many years and, year after year, she has consistently given more than full-time hours. Her commitment is unwavering.
“Every single day that I am here, so is Yvonne. When I arrive at events, she’s already there, setting up, helping out, and giving her time freely and generously.
“She is a driving force behind so many of our charitable initiatives. Yvonne actively supports every hospital charity appeal from the neonatal unit, to ‘Make a Memory’ for dementia, and our current Breast Care Appeal.
“Her tireless efforts have significantly contributed to the success of these campaigns, which together have raised over £1.5m.
“Her passion and determination help turn these appeals into reality.
“But her impact goes far beyond fundraising – Yvonne is always there for both patients and staff whether it’s guiding visitors through the hospital, offering emotional support during difficult moments, or simply being a friendly, calming presence.
“Earlier this year, during a volunteer review, we realised that Yvonne is the only volunteer who has worked in every single area of the hospital and even off-site. Her knowledge, flexibility and dedication are truly unmatched.”
As well as helping the charity, particularly with events organisation and Outreach work, Yvonne, who lives at Honeywell, is a member of Gateway Church where she helps runs Thursday ‘Safe Space’ sessions and spends time at weekends helping another charity which supports people with mental health issues and well-being.
Describing Yvonne as a ‘silent hero’, Sam added: “Yvonne genuinely embodies the spirit of Barnsley: generous, proud and deeply caring.
“She is not only a hero within the hospital walls but a symbol of everything that makes this community special.
“Her work has touched countless lives and I believe she deserves recognition far beyond what words can express.
“After attending many Proud of Barnsley awards I personally think Yvonne Moreland is the vision of ‘Proud of Barnsley’ and I can’t think of anyone more deserving of the Hospital Hero award.”
