Great-gran hoping to build on 23 years of volunteering at Royal Preston Hospital once Covid restrictions allow

Kathleen Wallace — Kathleen is missing her volunteering role during the pandemic

A great-gran whose 20-plus years of volunteering at Royal Preston Hospital was halted by Covid-19 is hoping to get back to the role as soon as possible.

Kathleen Wallace, who is 78 and has two sons, two daughters and multiple grandchildren and great-grandchildren, has lived in Preston all her life.

For the past 23 years, Kathleen has spent an hour a day at RPH in the rehabilitation department, making hot drinks and chatting to patients.

Kathleen, who lives in Broadgate, said: “Doing this work through Lancashire Volunteer Partnership gets me out of the house and keeps me active.

“I enjoy visiting the staff for a chat as well as meeting the patients and often seeing people who I know. I’ve made lots of friends during my time there.”

Unfortunately it was decided for Kathleen’s own safety that she wouldn’t be able to continue her visits during the Covid-19 pandemic.

“I miss going but like many others I have to keep safe.

“I’ve got a Yorkie called Frankie who I enjoying taking out for little walks each day.”

Kathleen’s daughter, Yvonne Derbyshire, said: “Mum is hoping to go back to the rehab department to carry on with her voluntary work as soon as she is allowed.

“It’s such a lovely, kind-hearted thing to do. The family is so proud of her.”

Proud Preston. This, and many stories like it, show how the people of Preston are making a difference. Our Proud Preston section showcases all the charitable, kind, uplifting and great things about our city and the people who live here. #ProudPreston is alive and well, and there’s much to celebrate and be proud of, despite the challenging times we all face.

What do you think of Kathleen volunteering for all these years? Let us know in the comments.