Volunteers assist hospital patients
A group of volunteers have answered the call to help people find their way around West Gippsland Hospital while building works are underway.
Eight volunteers have taken on the role of concierges and work in pairs each day to greet and direct people who may have mobility issues or need to use a wheelchair to get into the hospital.
The concierge team has a desk near the rear door ambulance entry to the hospital and Emergency Department, where short-term patient drop off parking has been installed recently for people with mobility issues.
Volunteers Robert and Peggy Morris said it was enjoyable being able to help people.
“It can be confusing for some people to navigate around the building works so if we can help by assisting them to find their way then it makes a big difference,” Robert said.
Jim Gribbin said the job was giving him an outlet to be more active and be around people, while Jill Ehrnholm was enjoying learning a new volunteer role.
The volunteer concierge team is currently operating from 9am to 1pm on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday and Wednesdays from 9am to 4pm.
The hospital is seeking to recruit more volunteers to extend the hours of the service.
Those interested in joining the volunteer concierge team for a few hours a week should contact WGHG volunteers coordinator Rosemary Joiner on 5624 0597 or email info@wghg.com.au.
People wishing to visit or attend the hospital can read more about the building works and parking options by visiting the website www.wghg.com.au or phone 5623 0611 for information.