Hospitals make an appeal for more volunteers
SOUTHPORT and Ormskirk hospitals are looking for more volunteers to help make life better for its patients and staff.
The hospitals have a number of highly respected volunteers in a wide range of areas, but are looking for more people aged 16 or over to support its services.
Volunteer services manager Irene Gardner said: “We have some amazing, dedicated volunteers who make a unique and valuable contribution in supporting our hospitals and their local community by the service they provide.
“While it is important to recognise that although volunteers will have very different roles to staff and are not there to replace NHS workers, the positive impact that can be made for patients, staff and the volunteer themselves is mutually beneficial.
“A growing body of evidence shows volunteering has a positive impact on wellbeing for the individuals involved and giving is identified as one of the five ways to improve mental wellbeing and as such, volunteering is of value to both the individual and the NHS.
“Volunteering can also be great for people who are looking for a career in the NHS or one of the caring professions as they are given a unique insight into the skills and qualities they need.’’
She added: “We are particularly keen to recruit volunteers over the age of 18 to support our Emergency Department over the winter months.’’
There are a wide range of volunteer roles available including:
Greeting patients, staff or visitors on arrival
Making follow-up welfare calls to discharged patients
Directing and assisting patients, visitors and staff to specific departments
Befriending patients by talking to them, reading to them, or engaging in puzzles, games or creative activities
Becoming a mealtime buddy to support the feeding of elderly, vulnerable or lonely patients by chatting and encouraging them to eat and drink
Assisting in patient drinks.
The range of duties and activities listed above are not exhaustive however, with other roles available serving which could be discussed with Irene.
Volunteers must be aged 16 or over and must be committed and reliable.
An enthusiastic, caring and positive outlook and a willingness to engage with both patients and staff are an essential part of becoming an experienced volunteer and a valued member of the organisation.
Volunteers should be available to commit to at least one four-hour shift per week for a minimum of six months.
If you feel that you could make a difference to your local patient community and would like further information, email soh-tr.volunteering@ merseywestlancs.nhs.uk or telephone 01704 704796.