DEDICATED volunteers at Inverclyde Royal are celebrating after being recognised at NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde’s annual awards.

Occupational therapist Sandra Forbes, who is the co-ordinator for the hospital's Rainbow Garden, triumphed in the volunteer category.

Sandra and her team worked tirelessly to turn an empty space at the IRH into a tranquil green area, loved by patients, their families and staff.

Sandra has dedicated it to everyone who played a part in establishing the garden, including her late friend Fiona McInnes.

Fiona, who was a social worker at the IRH, loved looking out at the garden and is much missed by her colleagues at the Larkfield Unit.

Sandra said: “We’re delighted to have been given this recognition and I would like to dedicate it to Fiona and the rest of the team of volunteers who have worked so hard to create this wonderful space.

“Not only is this space loved by patients, their families and staff, but we it’s also a lasting legacy for Fiona, whose family still contribute to the work.

"After she passed away suddenly, her husband Ian and her family made a donation in her memory and have just made another contribution as we prepare for summer.”

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Following the introduction of the garden, local business, groups and volunteers have given up their time, made donations or even provided items to be used in the space. 

This has transformed it into a tranquil haven, where people want to spend time, especially during the warmer months.

As summer approaches, Sandra and the team are re-doubling their efforts to get the garden ready for patients to spend more time in and are calling on anyone with an interest to get involved.

Sandra said: “We can’t thank everyone enough for the donations they have made to the garden and we truly appreciate every penny that we can use to make this the best experience possible.

"What we are really looking for now is anyone who would like to join our group to help with the upkeep."

The Rainbow Garden volunteer group meet every Wednesday evening between 5-7pm at the Larkfield Unit, for anyone who would like to join them.

Those interested should email volunteer manager Harry Balch  harry.balch@ggc.scot.nhs.uk