Our chairman, Felicity Goodey, has decided to train as a UHSM Dining Companion after attending a celebration of the success of a scheme which helps vulnerable patients at mealtimes.

Doctors and nurses report the Dining Companions programme has had a significant effect on the health and wellbeing of patients needing long-term care.

A team of almost twenty volunteers has been trained to gently encourage patients to eat, and to make meal times more sociable.

Felicity would like more people who could donate time on a regular basis to volunteer to join the scheme. They will be supported and provided with guidance in this invaluable role by nursing staff. Experience of caring for people is not essential, as full training will be given and there will be support on the ward from nurses and support workers. If you'd like to find out more, please contact Gill or Lynn on 0161 291 5962. .