Thank you to volunteers, a reader letter

As St John Ambulance celebrates Volunteers’ Week (June 1 to 7) I would like to thank everyone who makes our amazing charity what it is – especially at a time when demand on our services is increasing and our people are playing vital roles in protecting people, supporting our health service and saving lives.

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This year – more than ever – St John volunteers are rallying to the aid of communities, caring for patients at home and in hospitals across the country.

They are giving their time to work in emergency departments, crew ambulances, and respond to 999 calls, putting their training, experience and professional skills to exemplary use during the coronavirus pandemic.

It is a truly amazing response that has resulted in the biggest mobilisation of St John Ambulance’s volunteers since WWII.

90 year old Joyce Bellamy from Pontefract who is knitting dolls for St John's Ambulance. Picture Scott Merrylees

Thousands of our people are on the frontline of the fight against Covid-19 and we all owe them our thanks.

But I would also like to take this opportunity to thank thousands more of the hidden heroes within St John Ambulance: from our Badgers and Cadets – young people, whose energy, enthusiasm and creativity in supporting our charity knows no bounds – through to our Fellowship volunteers, Priory Groups and Presidents, who are our ambassadors, advocates and fundraisers in every county of England, plus all of the experts in logistics, communications, IT and other specialisms without whom none of our work would be possible.

In this ongoing health emergency, everyone at St John Ambulance is here for each other and here for you; in the forefront of the battle against coronavirus and behind the scenes.

Please join me in thanking our incredible volunteers.

Ann Cable

Chief Commissioner

St John Ambulance.