05/06/2026
Our Volunteers’ Week 2026 Continue – Night 5:
As part of Volunteers' Week, a time dedicated to recognising the incredible people who give their time, skills and passion to support their communities, tonight we want to shine a spotlight on someone whose dedication often happens behind the scenes.
Volunteers’ Week celebrates those whose commitment makes organisations possible, and few people embody that more than our Unit Leader Trish Brady.
Behind every successful St John Ambulance Unit is someone carrying an enormous responsibility.
The role of Unit Leader brings accountability, leadership, and countless hours of work to ensure everything runs smoothly. In the busyness of day-to-day volunteering, much of that effort can go unseen, but it should never go unrecognised.
This October 2026, St John Ambulance Antrim Unit will celebrate a very special milestone. More than 32 years ago, the Antrim Guardian published an appeal from our local unit, where volunteers pleaded for a permanent place to call home.
For decades, that dream remained just that—a dream.
Then, within the last few years, it finally became a reality.
Today, our volunteers have a forever home: a base where training can take place, equipment can be stored, and both of our ambulances can be maintained under one roof. It is a place that provides stability, opportunity, and a foundation for future generations of volunteers.
The journey to get here was far from easy. Since 2018 alone, the unit has moved six times. Each move brought uncertainty, challenges, and obstacles to overcome.
Throughout every setback and every transition, one person remained determined to see that dream become a reality. Trish.
For many years, Trish has been part of the Antrim Unit family. Her commitment, perseverance, and unwavering belief in the future of the unit have helped shape what Antrim Unit is today.
During her time with the unit, Antrim has secured its forever home and welcomed a brand-new ambulance, meaning the unit now proudly operates two ambulances in service to our community.
But beyond the buildings and vehicles, Trish's greatest contribution has been her commitment to people.
She tirelessly advocates for volunteers, encourages them to achieve their potential, and walks alongside them throughout their volunteering journey. She is always there to support, guide, and champion those who give their time to serve others.
Tonight, on behalf of everyone at St John Ambulance Antrim Unit, we simply want to say:
Thank you, Trish.
Thank you for the countless hours, the determination, the leadership, and the sacrifices made behind the scenes. Thank you for never giving up on the vision for our unit.
Thank you for supporting generations of volunteers and helping build the strong, welcoming, and successful unit we are proud to be part of today.
Your hard work may often happen quietly, but it has never gone unnoticed.
Thank you for everything you have done, and continue to do, for our volunteers, our unit, and our community. 💚🌟
