Stockport Volunteer 'Skip' Honored for 70 Years of Service to Hospital Children
A dedicated volunteer with an extensive history of providing entertainment and support for young patients at Stepping Hill Hospital has been recognized with one of Greater Manchester's highest honors.
Charles Hamilton, affectionately known as 'Skip' to friends, patients, and colleagues, has been presented with the High Sheriff of Greater Manchester Award for an incredible 70 years of voluntary work. His contributions span both the Scouts and children's wards in local hospitals across Stockport.
Decades of Dedication to Young Patients
Skip has been a familiar and cheerful presence at the Stepping Hill Hospital's Treehouse children's unit since 2000. His volunteer journey began much earlier, with active roles in other local hospitals for many years prior.
He initiated his volunteering career with the Scouts 70 years ago, and over the decades, he has also served at:
- Marple Orthopaedic Hospital
- Cherry Tree Hospital
- Stockport Infirmary
before transitioning to the Treehouse unit, where he has become a beloved figure.
Bringing Joy and Creativity to the Ward
Skip specializes in teaching children how to play games from around the world, with a particular talent for crafting paper aeroplanes. Beyond entertainment, he diligently maintains the Treehouse gardens, ensuring they remain vibrant and welcoming for young visitors.
In 2013, his years of service were acknowledged with a regional 'Pride of Britain' award. Last year, colleagues on the Treehouse unit celebrated his 90th birthday with a special party, expressing their gratitude for his unwavering dedication.
Award and Generous Donation
The High Sheriff of Greater Manchester Award honors local individuals who demonstrate outstanding service. As part of this recognition, Skip received £500, which he generously donated to the Treehouse unit through the Stockport NHS Charity.
This contribution will be used to purchase new plants for the garden and additional toys to keep young patients engaged and entertained during their hospital stays.
Heartfelt Tributes from the Hospital Community
Yvonne Hewitt, voluntary service manager at Stockport NHS Foundation Trust, praised Skip's impact: "Skip is a much-loved and hugely valued volunteer who has brought smiles to young patients on our children’s ward and to many others for so many years."
She added, "We’re all delighted for him to have his dedication and service recognized by the High Sheriff of Greater Manchester Award, and it’s a typically generous gesture for him to have donated his prize money to help support children on the unit."
Stepping Hill Hospital is located in Stockport, Greater Manchester, and continues to benefit from the selfless efforts of volunteers like Skip, whose legacy of kindness and commitment inspires the entire community.
