East Kilbride man gives back to community by volunteering
Joe Murdoch started volunteering at University Hospital Hairmyres, East Kilbride, in August 2024, after the death of his wife left him feeling "lonely, depressed, and tearful".
The retired regional sales manager now spends two mornings a week as a ward helper, topping up water jugs and assisting patients with their menu cards.
Above all, he provides conversation, companionship, and light-hearted moments to those who may not receive many visitors.
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Joe said: "If I can make one person smile, I know I'm doing the right thing.
"Chatting to patients gives me purpose, and it's wonderful when they shout 'Joe, come and see us!' as I walk down the corridor."
"My GP suggested volunteering to ease the loneliness after my wife died, and I haven't looked back.
"Since volunteering with NHS Lanarkshire, I feel better within myself – it gives me something meaningful to do with all the time I have, and I'm always made to feel welcome.
"There was one lady who looked sad when I arrived; we started talking about an ice cream shop in Girvan we both loved, and by the time I left she had a huge smile on her face."
Joe's efforts have reached more than the patients he helps, with the ward staff expressing gratitude for his dedication.
Senior charge nurses event invited him to join them for Christmas dinner, to ensure he wouldn't spend the day alone – an act of kindness that "brought a tear" to his eye.
Erin Macqueen, NHS Lanarkshire's voluntary services manager, said: "Joe's story shows the mutual benefit of volunteering.
"Patients enjoy a friendly face and good conversation, while volunteers gain confidence, new skills, and a sense of community.
"His warmth lifts the mood on the wards and gives our clinical staff a little more time to focus on care.
"Joe is a shining example of what can be achieved when people share their life experiences and kindness.
"During Volunteers' Week, we want to celebrate Joe and all of our volunteers – hospitals simply wouldn't be the same without them.
"We're immensely proud of Joe and every volunteer who gives their time so generously."
Despite suffering a minor stroke earlier this year, Joe can't keep away from volunteering.
After a short recovery, he returned to the wards, where he says he was welcomed back with open arms.
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Joe's experience has proved that volunteering not only helps others but can also bring about a personal transformation.
He added: "The week felt very long when you don't see many people.
"Coming to Hairmyres gives me a real sense of belonging – I feel like part of the team."
Anyone interested in becoming a volunteer with NHS Lanarkshire should email hrvolunteering@lanarkshire.scot.nhs.uk or phone 07966 296367.
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