Past Chair Margaret Dodd handing over the 2016 cheque together with committee members and representatives of the various Hospital Departments
Nevill Court built in 1860’s by 1920 became Nevill Hall Hospital.
In 1927 the Victoria Hospital Needle Work Guild was founded, becoming the Victoria Linen Guild in 1936, eventually incorporated into the North Gwent Hospitals League of Friends, serving tea and homemade scones, chatting with patients being an important ‘cog’ in hospital life.
In 1947 I recall being fed and watered by Ladies in brightly coloured aprons, like second “Mums”, who fussed over you and brought in many home comforts for all to share.
In 1955 the League of Friends was formed serving tea, coffee, sandwiches, snacks, warm cheerful words and a friendly smiling face. That year planning took place to build the “New Hospital” officially opened in 1969. The League moved into the new hospital firstly to one of the corridors then what is now the Ambulance Station until the present shop was opened in 2003, the League also started the welcome desk, library trolley and catering at the hospital memorial services.
I am sure that the ladies, at the turn of the last century would realise that their desire to help others would not have turned into an organisation, giving a service to all and presenting the hospital millions of pounds to buy equipment.
Chair Sheila Woodhouse at a specially arranged event organised by Lin Slater Deputy Director of nursing thanking the League for their continued support and generous donations of equipment to Nevill Hall Hospital.
In 2003 an article in a local newspaper stated “the new coffee machines especially ‘the bean to cup’ gives a taste second to none. It is the best value in town, where else could you get a flavoursome coffee for 50p”.
None of this could be achieved without our volunteers, working at least two hours a month, they find “working” in the coffee shop satisfying. Today a coffee costs £1.20 which not only makes a profit also leaves at least £1 in in every customer’s pocket. Our committee donated £65,000 to the hospital in 2018 and this is matched by our clients being “at least £65,000” less out of pocket.
Since 2003 the Nevill Hall League of Friends has donated £1,051,991-00 to Nevill Hall. However since 1955 donations, corrected for inflation, totals in excess of £4million, and that is not taking into account the value of a well-chosen friendly word, smile and a cuppa!
To keep giving the service, we need to keep up volunteer numbers. We would like you to consider giving up what is the most precious thing you have “time”.
You can become one of the League of Friends it’s easy, just call Barbara on 01873737752 or David on 01873850596 you will receive a big League of Friends welcome.
David E Spencer
