Volunteers dig in to help hospital garden

Volunteers from AstraZeneca recently rolled up their sleeves to improve the courtyard garden at Macclesfield District General Hospital.

Located in-between the east entrance and the RVS Café, the garden was spruced up by 14 members of staff from the Macclesfield plant, who spent the day tidying and planting in the garden as part of the company’s imitative to encourage staff to give back to the local community.

Penny Netherwood, who works for employee volunteering and helps to organise volunteering opportunities for AstraZeneca as part of her role, said: “This is their day to make a difference out in the community. All staff from AstraZeneca get a day in the year to come out and volunteer.

“They like to make sure they are giving back in the area and that is what this is all about. They have had a lovely time tidying and planting in the garden and we have been well looked after by the trust while we have been here.”

Sandra Griffiths, volunteer project lead at East Cheshire NHS Trust, said: “We’re so delighted to be working with employee volunteering and the volunteers from AstraZeneca.

“The support and contribution they make to the facilities and environment to be enjoyed by our staff and patients is greatly appreciated and has such a fantastic impact on health and wellbeing.

“Thank you so much for all the help they have given and we’re looking forward to welcoming another team in July.”