Volunteers sought for new role as companion observers at hospital

NHS Tayside is looking for volunteers to join staff in ward six and in the short-stay medical ward at Ninewells Hospital in Dundee in a new role as companion observers.

As a volunteer companion observer you will be spending time with patients who have been identified by the nursing team as at an increased risk of falling and who would benefit from more individual one-toone support.

Volunteers would also be asked to help patients to take part in meaningful activities such as simple arts and crafts, reading a book, playing board games together, doing crosswords as well as general listening and chatting with patients.

For this new role to be a success, NHS Tayside is looking for people who would be able to commit to one shift lasting three hours each week for a minimum period of six months.

These weekly shifts are either from 2pm to 5pm or from 3pm to 6pm.

Valerie Ewan, volunteer manager at Ninewells, said: “As this is Volunteers’ Week, it is an excellent opportunity to appeal for volunteers for this new role.

“To be a volunteer companion observer you have to be 18 years of age and have an interest in helping and spending time with patients.

“It is important to have a friendly and understanding nature and be reliable as you will be providing a valuable role.”

If you are interested in becoming a companion observer and would like to hear more about the role, an information event is to be held on Monday June 19, between 2pm and 4pm, at Ninewells.

Contact Valerie on 01382 740136 or email volunteeringservice.tayside@nhs.net.