Dedication to supporting people affected by cancer has led to a retired administrative assistant from Ellesmere Port receiving a national volunteer award from Macmillan Cancer Support.

In recognition of her sterling efforts Sue Yates received the Deborah Hutton Award at the charity’s Volunteers’ Award Conference held in Leicestershire.

The award is given to individuals or groups who provide practical care and support to people affected by cancer beyond the expectations of their role.

The charity says the 65-year-old has dedicated herself to her role of Macmillan Support and Information Centre volunteer for five years and is ‘an invaluable member of the team’ at the Countess of Chester NHS Foundation Trust.

Her monitoring and evaluation skills are said to be paramount to the smooth running of the busy centre.

Whether she is supporting clients, helping to run the ‘Look Good Feel Better’ programme or ensuring the wellbeing of other volunteers, she always goes the extra mile.

Sue’s empathy and compassion shines through in everything she does according to the charity.

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She has an ‘outstanding ability’ to recognise and respond to the varied needs of people affected by cancer and always knows how to put people at ease.

“What’s more, Sue is an excellent role model for other volunteers at the centre and is always the first to assist with any community outreach events.”

'Flattering'

On hearing she had won the award, Sue, who has two children and two grandchildren, said: “It was a total shock and very flattering.”

She added: “It is rewarding to delve a little bit deeper and help someone feel comfortable to talk to you. I leave the Macmillan information and support centre feeling like I have done something to help someone and that is enjoyable.

“I offer someone a listening ear and I explain I am a volunteer. I can provide support to people. You need to be able to speak to others easily, listen to their story and make them feel welcome.”

Jane Melvin, head of service for north west England, said: “Macmillan was set up by a volunteer over 100 years ago and our volunteers are crucial in helping us to ensure that no one has to face cancer alone.

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“We wanted to use Volunteers’ Week to say a well-deserved ‘thank you’ to all the people who give their time to help us. We also wanted to thank Sue for her incredible compassion and empathy and for providing invaluable practical care and support to help people affected by cancer.

“At Macmillan we have a variety of volunteering roles and always like to hear from people that might be interested in helping. Whether it’s minutes or months, hours or days, whatever time you can give really will matter.”

To find out about how to volunteer for Macmillan call the charity on 0300 1000 200.