The Royal Free Hospital school has received a national award for working with volunteers to improve the experience of young patients during their hospital stay.

The 2018 Helpforce Champions Awards celebrate the contribution made to NHS services by volunteers, who generously give their time to patients, staff and communities.

At the Royal Free Hospital school, volunteers help by assisting in the day school and on the wards with young patients. The school won the award because of their ‘exceptional partnership’ with a team of volunteers, including teaching assistants and others who bring their therapy dogs to visit students during lessons and break times. 

Sue Caesar, hospital school manager said: “It is wonderful to receive this amazing award and to work with such lovely volunteers. They add a great deal to our school.”
 
Sir Thomas Hughes-Hallett, founder and chair of Helpforce, said: “We have been humbled to see so many examples of inspiring volunteering from across the country. 

“We know the benefits that well-managed volunteers bring, with substantial improvements in patient care and positive feedback from NHS staff.”