A HOSPITAL volunteer who has been selflessly helping others for six decades has been recognised for her efforts and voted NHS South Birmingham’s ‘People’s Champion of the Year’.

Popular 79-year-old Joan Bryant’s latest efforts are to offer cups of tea and a sympathetic ear to outpatients at the Assessment and Treatment Service in Moseley Hall Hospital.

Joan, from Moseley, gives up two full days a week to reassure patients during their visit as a volunteer with the patient experience team for South Birmingham Community Health.

Her involvement began at Moseley Hall Hospital nine years ago when she started making regular visits to a close friend who had suffered a series of strokes.

“There’s nothing like the feeling that you’re doing your bit when people are going through a difficult time,” said Joan. “It’s such a caring team, they make me feel really welcome and I’m so proud to be part of it and to have won an award. I never expected it and I’m very grateful.”

Joan’s commitment to caring began when she first volunteered for St John Ambulance at the age of 13, rising to superintendent before she was 30. She also had a short stint as a trainee nurse at the former Little Bromwich Hospital and several years as a full-time carer.

Treatment Service team leader Sally Meredith said: “Joan is remarkable. She’s a wonderful lady and we’re delighted her contribution has been recognised with this award.”