Hospital volunteers have been recognised as almost 2,000 patients have received company and support.

The Princess Alexandra Hospital Trust compassionate care, known as Namaste, voluntary services team has been nominated for a Helpforce Champions Award, in the Outstanding Team of the Year category.

The hospital has said that in reaching the final, the team were recognised particularly for "demonstrating compassion and giving their time to offer a listening ear to our patients".

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The awards provide national recognition of contributions to volunteering in the health and care sector.

Voluntary services coordinator Jayne Moscow said: “We are delighted to have been shortlisted for a national award – our volunteers provide invaluable support to our hospital and it means so much to all of us to be recognised.

“Thank you to all of our amazing volunteers for your contributions.”

There are currently 25 members of the team, with four new volunteers joining soon and opportunities for more people to get involved.

Their role includes sitting alongside patients to encourage conversation or just being with them to provide company, reading them a newspaper or a story, or playing them music.

The team also help care for patients with learning disabilities and those living with dementia, including offering one-to-one support sessions.

Voluntary service manager Phillipa Haslehurst said: “We know how vital all of our volunteers are to support our patients, their families and our people.

"This is an incredibly exciting time to be shortlisted for the Helpforce awards as it recognises the success of a unique service that is planned to be shared across the NHS."

Since the project began in December 2021, volunteers have undertaken 799 volunteering hours, and supported 1,974 patients.

Hospital deputy chief executive Sharon McNally added: “I am delighted to see our wonderful volunteers shortlisted for an award. Their commitment to support our patients and our people is amazing and so appreciated by us all. Well done and good luck for the finals.”

The team is still looking for more volunteers, who receive full training including caring for patients who have learning disabilities or those who are living with dementia.