A VOLUNTEER-run shop at an Oxford Hospital has issued a ‘desperate’ appeal for more to join its ranks.

Each morning a dedicated army of helpers make their way to the Nuffield Orthopaedic Centre to prepare sandwiches to sell in the League of Friends shop.

Their volunteering helps the shop earn about £5,000 a week which it donates back to the hospital to buy extra specialist medical equipment and pay for staff training.

But after a recent spell of poor health amongst the mainly elderly volunteers, the shop at the Headington hospital is running ‘desperately short on help’.

It is feared that if more people do not come forward the shop – which opens between 10am and 4pm – may have to close early.”

Chairwoman of the League of Friends Maureen Pope said: “Volunteers are desperately needed.

“We value each and every one of our existing volunteers but we have a constant need for new members who will give their time and energy.

“At the moment we have about 60 people on the books, but around 40 of them work in the shop as and when they can.

“But there has been a lot of ill health recently and we don’t have the people to cover for them.”

There has been a League of Friends for the Nuffield Orthopaedic Centre since 1964. In that time it has raised hundreds of thousands of pounds for the hospital thanks to its volunteers – many of whom vow to pledge their time because of the help the hospital has given either to them or a loved one.

Maureen Pope said it was a great way to stay young and fit.

She said: “Volunteering can improve your health by raising self-esteem, reduce blood pressure, combat social isolation, and reduce the impact of stress.

“For younger people, aged 16 and over, it is a great way to enhance your CV and make new friends.

“Please join us the League of Friends needs you and everyone benefits.”

John Groom, General Manager of the NOC site said: “Patients, visitors and staff at the Nuffield Orthopaedic Centre site are very grateful for the contribution the League of Friends have made to improving the hospital for their benefit.

“The League of Friends provides a valued service and has done so for many years. Its success is down to the dedication of its many volunteers.”

  • If you want to volunteer at the hospital you must be able to spare a couple of hours a week. Contact Ann Frost general manager on 01865 738121 between Tuesday and Friday, before 4pm.