After a successful career in business, Sue Watts found herself at a loose end following the passing of her husband.
“I was at home by myself and wanted to do something,” she said.
Sue’s connection to the health industry came through her daughter Sally, who is Chief Allied Health Officer at Bendigo Health.
In 2014, Sally suggested Sue volunteer at Bendigo Health.
“I saw the benefit to the organisation at the time and also the benefit to my Mum, who was fit, active and looking to give back in a meaningful way,” Sally said.
Sue has spent the majority of her time volunteering at Bendigo Health in the discharge lounge, and was part of the volunteer group that supported the vaccination clinic on Mollison Street during its peak.
“I like the social side of things here. We have a great group of people. Even during COVID when we were unable to volunteer we caught up,” Sue said.
“The discharge lounge is great, we feel like we’re making a difference to the health service.
“We see lots of different types of people – and they’re all going home, which helps.”
Sally encouraged others to talk to their family or friends about volunteering at Bendigo Health.
Bendigo Health Director Volunteer Services Sharon Walsh said as the health service grew so too did the requirements for volunteer support.
“Before COVID we had 280 volunteers, now we’ve got 120. This drop is impacting our ability to support the volunteer express service, support the Emergency Department and aged care and palliative care,” she said.
“If you have a family member, neighbour or friend you think might be interested in volunteering please get in touch with the team.”
For more information on volunteering at Bendigo Health call 5454 7639, or visit: bendigohealth.org.au/volunteering