Today is the start of Volunteers’ Week 2021! A chance to celebrate and say THANK YOU to all volunteers - from individuals helping neighbours to groups supporting communities. Today we celebrate and thank the volunteer team at HM Coastguard, who have been, and continue to be, a vital part of the Orkney emergency response to Covid-19.
Imogen volunteers with the HM Coastguard Sanday team. “Whilst trained in water rescue, my volunteering role mostly involves assisting with medical evacuations by helicopter from Sanday to hospital. I enjoy being able to contribute to my community and being a member of the coastguard is very different from my other volunteer roles.”
Jim has volunteered with the HM Coastguard Mainland team for over 30 years! “I wanted to help people in trouble and was interested especially in the rescue side. This year I have volunteered hundreds of hours as part of the marshalling team at the vaccination centres. Some of the people arriving for their jag, especially the more elderly are worried and afraid, so I provide a friendly face, reassurance, and practical help to get them to the nurses. No matter what the weather we have been there to help and when folk come back out with a smile on their face, I know I have made a difference.
When the snow came, I was part of the 4x4 team ferrying carers and medical staff about. We have been carrying on with our normal duties too, making sure our training is up to date and keeping people safe, including helping the police with missing person searching. I would tell anyone interested in volunteering with the coastguard to get in touch with us on 873704 and have a chat. It is a fantastic role and a great way to help people."
For more information about HM Coastguard in Orkney you can also email area1@mcga.gov.uk and follow them on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/HMCoastguardOrkneyShetland/
Thank you to Imogen and Jim and everyone at HM Coastguard for all you have done this year to keep our community safe and well.
