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Could you volunteer in the NHS?

A person reading a book to two older adults

Herefordshire and Worcestershire Health and Care NHS Trust are inviting prospective volunteers to find out more about the exciting roles available within their services.

The Trust, which provides a range of physical and mental health services across both counties, are hosting a virtual coffee morning as part of their Volunteers Week celebrations.

It hopes to encourage more people to give their time to volunteering and improve awareness of the different types of volunteering that is available within the NHS.

Kate Richards, Volunteer Coordinator said, “We have lots of different opportunities available to those wishing to give some of their time to volunteering.

“It’s more than just traditional patient facing roles, we have several groups that meet virtually to give their views, feedback and experiences to help us improve our services.

“We even have volunteers that help us with recruitment, by sitting on interview panels alongside members of our staff”.

According to data from the National Council for Voluntary Organisations, 16.3 million people volunteered in 2020/21.

Not only does volunteering help local services, it’s thought to have a positive impact on the mental health and wellbeing of those involved.

It also helps people connect with their local communities, reducing isolation and loneliness.

“Volunteers have a vital role to play within the NHS. In addition to supporting patients in our care, they ensure the voices and opinions of our communities are heard and help us to improve our services”, explains Kate Wood, Digital Community Engagement Manager.

“It can be really rewarding knowing you’re making a difference to the lives of others, and I urge anyone with a few hours to spare to get involved.

“We have volunteering opportunities available to almost everyone, regardless of their experience or circumstances.”

Volunteers Week takes place from the 1st to the 7th of June each year. It's a chance to recognise the fantastic contribution volunteers make to our communities and say thank you for their continued support.

The Trust is currently recruiting volunteers to support their community engagement and patient experience programmes, including roles in their Community Engagement Panel, Equality Advisory Group and Youth Board; a focus group made up of young people.

Those wishing to find out more are invited to join the event on Wednesday 8th June from 10:00 - 11:00am via video call.

It is open to everyone living in Herefordshire or Worcestershire and will feature staff from the Trust discussing current opportunities and the application process, alongside existing volunteers sharing their experiences of volunteering at the Trust. To register your interest please email: whcnhs.communityengagement@nhs.net.

For more information visit: www.hacw.nhs.uk/get-involved

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