Johnson Community Hospital welcome ‘valued’ service back to Spalding site
A ‘delighted’ charity has welcomed a long-awaited service with open arms thanks to a generous donation.
TheFriends of Johnson Community Hospital, have reintroduced the ‘Trolley Shop’ for patients and staff at the site in Spalding Road in Pinchbeck.
It offers a range of snacks and home comforts such as magazines – and it has already proved to be a valued part of the hospital.
The non-profit service was given a new lease of life as a result of a kind donation from Trevor Young, in loving memory of his late wife, Maureen Dennis – whose career as a nurse began in 1948.
At just 16 years old, Maureen left her parents and seven siblings to pursue the new venture 150 miles away from her home in Moulton Chapel.
During her training, she documented her experience in a nursing notebook which is now on display in the hospital foyer.
Maureen, who was a ‘true pioneer’ of her time, also worked at the Johnson Hospital on Priory Road.
The trolley shop is currently being managed by Philomena McNeill, Marion Philpott, Tracey Wells, and Dorothy Wood, who are all part of Pinchbeck’s Women’s Insitute.
A spokesperson from the charity said: “It is more than just a shop. Patients weekly trolley visits offer a friendly face and a warm conversation – it really does make a difference to their stay.
“The Friends are immensely grateful to Trevor Dennis for his heartfelt donation and to our dedicated volunteers who are helping to bring comfort, conversation, and kindness to the hospital corridors.”
The Friends of Johnson Community Hospital are currently looking to recruit more volunteers to help with the trolley shop.
If you are interested in applying, email info@friendsofjohnsonhospital.co.uk. There is no qualification needed, just a smile and a listening ear.