New volunteering opportunities in a fast-paced environment are available at Colchester Hospital.
The volunteering team at East Suffolk and North Essex NHS Foundation Trust (ESNEFT) is strengthening its volunteering programme by recruiting into different areas of its hospitals at different times.
Part of that work will see new volunteers recruited to spend a regular amount of time in A&E at Colchester Hospital.
A recruitment event is being held on Thursday 8 May at 9.30am where people can register to provide an extra pair of hands in supporting our patients at a time when they need it most.
ESNEFT Chief Nurse Catherine Morgan said: “We are holding this recruitment drive now we are out of winter pressures as part of our strategy to strengthen our volunteer workforce.
“We’ve a long-standing history of volunteering at our sites, including in our A&E departments, and we want to extend that opportunity to others.
“We are asking volunteers to work at the same time each week in A&E, providing emotional reassurance and support for our patients at a stressful time.
“This consistent offer of time and support will really help our patients, the team and the department, while enabling our volunteers to really feel part of the ESNEFT family.
“We then benefit from the additional time and support they give us for those added extras that really matter. This might be spending time having a chat with a patient or relative, or offering food and drink.
“We recognise the huge value of our volunteers, and we are so grateful for the time they dedicate to supporting our staff and patients.”
Could you spare some time to volunteer for four hours a week in A&E at Colchester Hospital?
The role involves:
- providing nutritional support/refreshments to patients and visitors
- supporting patients/relatives on a one-to-one basis by talking and listening to them
- offering directional support to guide patients to the correct areas
- stocking up leaflets, medical equipment, slide sheets, linen and other items
- general cleaning and tidying around ED – including pantry
- support in completing forms and conducting one-to-one patient questionnaire
Shifts are available 8am to 10pm Monday to Sunday.
Colchester ED volunteer Kieran Sowter said: “I wanted a fast-paced and interesting role so specifically asked to volunteer in A&E.
“I really enjoy chatting to the patients, particularly those who are on their own. They are all so grateful and appreciate the fact that you’re able to spend time with them, as sometimes just having a conversation can make a big difference.”
If you are interested in getting involved, or know someone who might be, please complete/share the expression of interest form. The deadline for registering is 4pm on Friday 2 May.
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