Palliative Care Heroes named Volunteer Team of the Year

In recognition of their outstanding contribution to the health industry, the South Western Sydney Local Health District Palliative Care COVID-19 team at Liverpool and Camden Hospitals have been named the NSW 2021 Volunteer Team of the Year.

State Member for Camden, Peter Sidgreaves MP, said despite the challenges posed by COVID-19, the palliative care team at these Hospitals have supported grieving families in a variety of ways.

“We are extremely grateful for their continued commitment to support our local community and I congratulate them on this prestigious award.” Mr Sidgreaves said.

Also congratulating the palliative care team, Minister for Families, Communities and Disability Services Alister Henskens said, “Volunteers are the glue that helps bind our communities together and I am always inspired by the incredible people that devote their time and energy to benefit others.”

Now in its fifteenth year, the NSW Volunteer of the Year Awards have grown to become one of the largest celebrations of volunteering across Australia.

State Member for Holsworthy, Melanie Gibbons MP said the NSW Volunteer of the Year Awards highlight the extraordinary efforts of individuals and organisations in their local communities.

“I thank all of the members of this team for their continued passion and dedication to supporting those in our community during what can be a stressful and emotional time.” Ms Gibbons said.

The NSW Volunteer of the Year Awards are run by The Centre for Volunteering, the state’s peak body for volunteering.

The Centre’s CEO Gemma Rygate said that despite COVID-19, volunteers have continued to work right across the spectrum of the sector.

“They’ve worked to deliver meals to the vulnerable; care packages have been provided for families in need in locked down areas; and lifeline phones have continued to be answered. Volunteers have made sure people in palliative care are treated safely, with care and dignity; they’ve helped keep aged care residents connected; and they’ve protected communities in the face of natural disasters,” Ms Rygate said.