To mark National Volunteers Week (1-7 June), we’re celebrating the contribution and dedication of our volunteers, who work behind the scenes to support staff and patients.
Volunteers play an important role in complementing and enhancing the work of our staff. They carry out a wide variety of duties that are a crucial support for both patients and staff. From delivering medical records, or offering a friendly face and a chat, the contribution of volunteers is invaluable.
We’re always on the lookout for more enthusiastic people to join our dedicated team of over 140 volunteers.
There are lots of different reasons why people volunteer for Gateshead Health, such as to give something back to the NHS, fill in some spare time, or get valuable work experience.
Meet some of our volunteers.
We asked some of our volunteers why they got involved and what they love about their role.
Rohan became a volunteer in July 2022 to learn more about working in a hospital.
I started volunteering after my A-Level exams because I am interested in persuing a career in medicine and wanted to understand more of what it was like inside a hospital.
I was a bit apprehensive to start with but one thing I learnt was that the hospital is full of so many kind and friendly faces that made me feel included and solidified my passion to work in this type of environment.
Later on that year I ended up getting a job as a Healthcare Assistant on ward 14 which at first was a huge step up, but my time volunteering helped prepare me for life on the ward and helped me get into the swing of things.
Throughout this whole year I have picked up so many skills from the QE that have helped me in getting an offer to study medicine in September. It will be hard to say goodbye to so many friendly faces.
Rohan
Ray took up volunteering after he retired from full time work.
When I was about to retire from work, my son who is a nurse in the hospital, mentioned that the hospital was looking for volunteers. I applied to be a volunteer and that’s what I do now!
I thoroughly enjoy it, it gets me out of the house and it’s a new life after being retired.
Ray
Hannah started at the hospital as a volunteer, but 7 months ago she started a full time job on ward 14.
I absolutely love coming into work each day and night with a huge smile on my face, also still being able to work with all my old volunteer friends is a huge bonus.
Hannah
Judith Curry, patient experience and volunteer manager at Gateshead Health NHS Foundation Trust, said: “Our volunteers are absolutely amazing and we cannot thank them enough for all the support they offer Gateshead NHS. They add value and enhance the experience for our patients, as well as providing a source of vital support to our staff.
“Volunteering is special because you offer your time and skills and, in return, you get the rewarding feeling of helping others. Whether you’re looking for work experience to add to your CV or you want to give something back to the community, we have the volunteering opportunity for you.”
If you’re interested in volunteering you can find more information on our volunteering page, email Judith Curry our patient experience and volunteer manager on [email protected] or telephone 0191 445 2343.