NHS Lanarkshire Volunteering

“In my opinion, volunteering with NHS Lanarkshire has been one of the most beneficial and memorable experiences I have took on. It was so enjoyable that I am looking to continuing my volunteer work with them. I have always been interested in the healthcare industry, I think it takes a lot to dedicate your life to caring for others and that is why I have always wanted to be a part of it. With this in mind, I knew that as soon as I turned 16 I wanted to get into volunteering so that I could help out in any way I could and get some hands on experience with the NHS. Not only is it a great option for work experience, but it really expands your skill set. For me, it really helped develop my confidence and made me feel more at ease communicating with new people and being in new environments. A big part of how enjoyable the experience was, was down to the people. The staff treated me as an adult and made me feel like I was one of them, they supported me whilst learning new things and also got to know me, making me feel comfortable with them. It was also really good to chat to the patients and get to know them, they really enjoyed the company and made the experience worthwhile. I believe that anyone looking to go into the healthcare industry, or even just looking for volunteer work should look into doing it with NHS Lanarkshire as it truly offers valuable experience in an enjoyable way.”

“Having worked in the NHS for many years I decided when I retired that I would do some volunteer work within NHS which I started a few months ago.    I saw on many occasions how the care and dedication given by all staff in wards and how time was important too to spend even a few minutes with the patients and how it made them feel.   Staff don’t have that precious time and volunteers can make a difference to a patient even talking, playing a game or doing a bit of crafting can brighten up someone’s day.   I spent quite a few months in care of the elderly which was challenging for me, although I knew how much having someone to talk to even a stranger like myself could give reassurance to them.    

I came across a lady who was told that she needed to go into a care home and she was visibly upset at the prospect of leaving her lovely home and giving up her independence.  I told her about my Mum who too had to go into a care home and how she found having the company and staff around to keep her safe made her feel.   I tried to put her mind at rest but as I say this is a very difficult time for anyone who has this dilemma.   I now visit her in her care home and she’s all settled in and enjoys the activities, company and care she receives. To see her smile when I visit gives me joy that she is happy.  

Being a volunteer is not for everyone, it was time to give something back to the NHS albeit a bit of my time to staff and patients alike makes this rewarding for me. Go on be a volunteer you’ll not regret it.”

Day in a life as a volunteer 

In my role as a volunteer in spiritual care and well-being at University Hairmyres Hospital, a typical day involves hands-on experiences with patients who’ve previously been assessed by healthcare chaplains.

 The core of the responsibilities lies in visiting individuals identified as needing ongoing emotional, spiritual, and occasionally bereavement support. Working closely with a Chaplain, the joint mission is to enhance the well-being of patients, carers, and staff.

Throughout the day, I engage in empathetic conversations and active listening, working side by side with the Chaplain. Through this, I identify and address emotional needs, witnessing the profound impact that this support can have on individuals’ well-being. This practical engagement offers invaluable insights into the challenges patients face during their hospital stays, emphasising the importance and power of listening, emotional support, and effective healthcare communication – aspects I consider integral

Moreover, my experiences have brought to light the underdeveloped nature of spiritual care within the NHS. Observing that it may not always be fully utilised, I’ve gained valuable knowledge in this area and remain receptive to ongoing learning about the emotional needs of both patients and their families. Each day as a volunteer unfolds as a journey of understanding, compassion, and a commitment to bridging the gaps in the provision of spiritual care within the healthcare system.

“NHS Lanarkshire is a good team, the support received is impressive and most importantly volunteers are well respected as part of the team. You will enjoy it.”

“Having commenced volunteering with the NHS close on two years ago, I can honestly say it was a decision I by no means regret.  In that time, I have enacted two roles which have enabled me the opportunity to provide assistance & support to both patients & visitors alike at Wishaw General. In my current front-of-house role, I have provided cooperation to the visiting general public attending the hospital for scheduled medical appointments. This can be a stressful time for many.  Aside from having to negotiate frequent transport & car parking difficulties, the geographical layout of the hospital can be somewhat challenging. The vast majority of people who visit the hospital are therefore most grateful for any assistance rendered. This might entail verbal direction or personal accompaniment to their appointment location, wheelchair provision or moral support. It’s true to say that a significant number of people have been prone to leave their appointment letters at home.  This often leads to the scenario where they then relay their medical symptoms or the name of a specific doctor they have been assigned to see. Many years watching BBC’s Casualty have proved most beneficial in these instances!

Aside from the serious aspect of helping those in need, there has nevertheless been a few humorous tales in dealings with the general public. Whilst a few unfortunate souls have attended on the wrong date or perhaps even visited the wrong hospital, I have also encountered more than a few characters.  Two that stand out include the gentleman who made a query to me in Gaelic (& expected a native tongue response!) & the talented individual who recited self-written poetry to me on a weekly basis. On a personal level, I also became reacquainted with many long-lost friends during my voluntary experience, something I’m most grateful for.

In reality, lots of volunteers making a small contribution can make a BIG difference. If you wish to enhance your sense of self-fulfilment & lend a hand to our treasured national institution, I would encourage any potential new volunteers to make application without delay. Regardless of the position you may be deployed in, it will no doubt be appreciated by NHS colleagues & be of some value to the functionality of the hospital.

Team Lanarkshire NHS is waiting for you.  Go For It! ”

“I would say volunteering in NHS Lanarkshire is both enjoyable and worthwhile.  No matter how small you feel the contribution you can make, staff, patients and visitors are appreciative that you are there to help them.”