Couple mark 6,000 hours of volunteering after dedicating 13 years to helping hospital patients

A dedicated husband and wife have been praised for their remarkable commitment after giving more than 6,000 hours of their time to support patients, visitors and staff at Russells Hall Hospital.

Avtar and Mohinder Bansal have volunteered at the hospital, which is run by The Dudley Group NHS Foundation Trust, for the past 13 years, becoming familiar and much-loved faces to patients, visitors and colleagues.

Avtar can often be found on the enquiry desk, where he enjoys speaking to and helping everyone who passes by, while Mohinder volunteers in the outpatient department.

Before retiring, Avtar and Mohinder both worked as driving instructors and say the hospital remains a real hub for the local community, where they regularly meet former learners, familiar faces and new friends.

They said: “The doctors and nurses have always helped our family, so instead of sitting at home after we retired, we decided to give something back.

“Our faith is very important to us, and we believe we are all here to help each other as much as we possibly can throughout our lives.

“We meet lots of lovely people and have made many friends among the hardworking staff. Patients recognise us each time they come in and we try to help everyone.”

Their dedication to volunteering has also inspired the next generation of their family. Their granddaughter Simran has recently started volunteering in the Emergency Department, while their other grandchildren Aran, Serena and Rajan have also volunteered, following their grandparents’ example.

The couple’s advice to anyone considering volunteering is simple: “They should take the chance. They will not regret it.”

Volunteers' Coordinator Jane Goldsmith said: “Avtar and Mohinder are an absolute credit to the volunteer service. Most people don't realise they are married because they are rarely seen together, but together they have made an incredible difference over the past 13 years.

“Their kindness, warmth and commitment reflect the very best of volunteering. We are extremely grateful for everything they continue to do for our patients, visitors and staff.”