Unsung heroes behind stronger bones: Royal Osteoporosis Society celebrates the strength of their magnificent volunteers

This Volunteers’ Week, we are shining a spotlight on the extraordinary people at the heart of our mission - our volunteers. 

Across the UK, hundreds of dedicated volunteers play a crucial role in building a future without osteoporosis by giving their time, energy and lived experience in countless ways. From supporting others in their communities with support groups, using their voices to influence policymakers to shape powerful awareness campaigns, bringing energy and encouragement as “cheer squads” at many fundraising moments, to supporting the development of trusted health information - Volunteers help raise awareness and vital funds, and their impact is felt at every level of the charity. 

At the ROS, our volunteers help ensure that everything we produce is relevant, accessible and truly reflects the needs of people affected by osteoporosis.

Dedicated ROS Volunteer Maggie Puttick says:

“I have been a member and volunteer for the ROS for over 20 years, having helped a local support group, giving talks to community groups, running stands at fetes, schools and shopping centres, and serving on the Members & Volunteers Committee for several years. It has been my absolute pleasure to raise awareness of osteoporosis over the years, meeting fellow volunteers at ROS events and hoping to make a difference - Happy Volunteers Week!” 

Many volunteers also lend their voices to national conversations, helping to influence decision-makers and push for the changes needed to improve diagnosis, treatment and care for the millions of people living with osteoporosis across the UK. 

As part of Volunteers’ Week celebrations, we are looking forward to recognising outstanding contributions from across our volunteer community, presenting a number of special recognition awards to those who have gone above and beyond in the past year. These awards highlight the dedication, compassion and impact of individuals who have truly gone the extra mile to support the charity’s work. 

Helen Richards, Head of Volunteering and Public Engagement at the ROS added: 
 
"Our volunteers are at the very heart of everything we do. Their passion, insight and generosity is invaluable, not only by helping us to reach those affected by osteoporosis in local communities across the UK but by their unwavering enthusiasm and willingness to support us in our mission to drive real change and move closer to a future without osteoporosis. We are incredibly grateful to each and every one of them, however they choose to share their time and talents with us." 

There is no doubt that volunteers are an integral part of the Royal Osteoporosis Society, shaping our work and strengthening our impact every day. Whether they are supporting fundraising, influencing policy, sharing their stories or helping to build awareness, their contributions make a lasting difference. 

This Volunteers’ Week, we are extending a heartfelt thanks to our volunteer community; a collective force of compassion, dedication and determination whose support continues to change lives. 

To find out more about volunteering with the Royal Osteoporosis Society, click here.