What skills do I need to become a volunteer?
You have many great skills, you just might not realise it! We are looking for individuals who have the desire to help others, are positive, caring and sensitive to the needs of others. You might also have some other skills - maybe you are good on the telephone, confident with wayfinding or organised enough to undertake some administration duties. We can help you use these skills to support patients and visitors to the Trust. You can help us to make such a difference to their visit
What age do I have to be to volunteer?
Volunteers have to be at least 16 years of age. There is no upper age limit as long as you can fulfil your role safely. If you are under 16 years of age you may be interested in exploring Work Experience opportunities.
How much time do I have to give to volunteering?
We ask that you make a regular commitment of three hours a week for at least six months.
What training is involved?
All new volunteers will be asked to undertake a Volunteers Induction Training Day before they can start volunteering. This will ensure you are sufficiently able to undertake your role, as well as informed about the Trust's vision and values. The training will also offer you valuable insight into good practices, such as why we need to maintain and respect confidentiality, what to do in a fire situation and how to support good infection control practices to reduce harm to yourself and patients. In addition, there is other training such as such as Manual Handling.
Can I still go on holiday or have time off?
We appreciate that you need to take time off for holidays or exams etc. All we ask is that you keep us informed.
What will I get out of volunteering?
An opportunity to gain new skills and knowledge
An amazing opportunity to make a real difference
Make new friends
Fill your time and meet new people
Learn more about your local hospital and all the services it provides
Be appreciated
Out of pocket expenses
Free car parking whilst volunteering
Experience which may help with looking for a new job or new opportunities
What do I need to wear?
Trust volunteers will be required to wear either a yellow polo shirt or a yellow tabard (these are provided free of charge by the Trust). However, if they prefer, Trust volunteers can choose to wear a top of their own preference in a shade of yellow. Some other Volunteer organisations/volunteers in specific roles may be required to wear an alternative uniform such as, Chaplaincy and League of Friends.
Will I get a job after finishing my volunteering?
A volunteer placement does not guarantee employment at the end of the placement, but it may support your application for employment.
How long will the process to become a volunteer take?
The process normally takes on average between 4 – 6 weeks.
What things are volunteers not able to do?
Do not administer food, drinks or medication to patients.
Do not observe or engage in any type of patient treatment such as bathing, toileting or clinical activities.
Volunteers must always check with the ward before assisting with delivery of meals and drinks to patients.
I am a student looking for a placement in healthcare. Can I do my placement with UHNM?
We are unable to arrange student placements through Volunteer Services on a short term basis i.e 1-2 weeks. If you require a placement of this nature then please contact the Work Experience Department for more information on how to apply. We do however offer students volunteering opportunities if they wish to do this alongside their studies.
Will volunteering affect my benefits?
If you are on benefits, you can be a volunteer and in most cases, your benefits will not be affected. Our advice would be that you must always talk to Job Centre Plus before you start any volunteering if you are receiving benefits.
