New Queen Mary’s Hospital, Roehampton gets a little help from its Friends

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with a brand new Meet & Greet service

From next month visitors to the new £55 million PFI hospital will be greeted and assisted by a Friends of Queen Mary’s volunteer. This service has been introduced to help patients and visitors find their way around the new building.

The Friends of Queen Mary’s have been involved with the hospital since 1973, contributing funds for a variety of projects and items of equipment. Over the years they have also put on numerous events for elderly patients, run refreshment kiosks, provided ward entertainment and held an annual summer fair. Their work is an essential part of Queen Mary’s, providing assistance and support to patients and staff.

Diana Kinloch, Friends of Queen Mary’s Chairman said, “Having been a patient at the new hospital myself, I understand the importance of having someone to show you around and make sure you get to your appointment on time. Throughout July, we piloted the Meet and Greet service which was welcomed by patients and staff with great warmth. Later this year we plan to introduce a trolley service, which will offer light refreshments to patients and visitors. ”

The Friends currently has 15 volunteers, but they are always on the look out for new recruits. There are a variety of ways you can get involved, including administration; fundraising or helping patients find their way around. You can also support the Friends by becoming a member.

If you would like more details, please contact the Friends Office on 020 8487 6315 or email them at friends.qmh@swlondon.nhs.uk

July 31, 2006