Volunteer

Our voluntary services team is based at Scunthorpe General Hospital but they also cover Diana, Princess of Wales Hospital in Grimsby and Goole and District Hospital.

We have more than 140 volunteers on site, with more joining all the time, who provide invaluable support to our patients and staff.

Our volunteers have very often been inpatients themselves and have seen the importance of having someone there, who is not a nurse or doctor, someone they can chat to and who will spend time with them. Our volunteers have the ability to take the pressure off our busy nursing teams and to support our portering teams finding wheelchairs. They can be the friendly face at the entrance to our hospitals and help visitors find their way around the sites.

Each volunteer brings their own experiences to the role but also get something back – whether that be they feel useful, share their skills, or fill their spare time and interact with other people.

What makes a great volunteer

Someone who can commit to giving their time, no matter if it is half a day or a couple of hours every day. Someone who is understanding of our patients’ needs and will endeavour to make their experience the best it can be. They will be able to demonstrate our values of compassion, honesty, respect and teamwork.

You must be 17-years-old or over, (18-years-old in some areas of our hospitals). A volunteer uniform is provided which includes a turquoise polo shirt and navy hooded jacket. The uniform and ID badge must be worn to comply with the Trust uniform policy.

For me, the best thing about being a volunteer is the contact with people who are in need. I come as a listening ear – there to hear concerns, needs or just to pass the time of day with. Being a volunteer has made a huge difference to my life in retirement. It has given me a purpose and structure to the week.

Frequently asked questions

How do I apply? Apply by clicking the link above, provide two good character references and pass police and health checks. Be available to attend our virtual Trust induction and complete the volunteer online training package. We can help you through this process from start to finish.

Will there be training? Yes. All mandatory training is online and you will be provided with a link to access and complete this at your own pace. Any additional training will be provided before you start or by the team that you join.

Can I choose where I want to volunteer? We always like to know where you feel you could offer the most support. We will talk to you about different opportunities that are available at the time and find the best match for you and the ward or department you can help.

Who will be my contact? Julie Dobbs, voluntary services manager, and the voluntary services team on 03033 305577 or [email protected].

Voluntary roles

Wayfinders: Giving directions to anxious patients/visitors when they come into hospital. Volunteers will act as a point of contact for patients and visitors entering Trust sites, helping people navigate the Trust and locating wheelchairs.

Emergency department: Supporting patients with wayfinding and accessing appropriate services.  Relaying messages between patients and families.  Enabling hydration and nutrition as clinical conditions permit.

Ward support: Supporting wards with reception duties such as answering the phone.  Stocking up in clinical areas, supporting the ward with their ordering and receipt of ward stock supplies, plus other admin duties.

Admin support: Supporting central administration functions and departments across the Trust.

Patient liaison: Sitting with patients who require company and interaction.

Mealtime assistant: To work alongside staff to support patients on wards at mealtimes thereby increasing the positive experience patients have whilst in hospital.

Bluebell volunteer: To make packs for EOL (end of life) patients/families.