VOLUNTEERS are being sought to support patients during their stay at Tameside Hospital.
The Trust which runs the Ashton-based hospital is calling on the community to give their time to help its Patient Experience Team.
Volunteers will be involved in a variety of supportive roles including offering companionship, assisting with tasks like meals or fetching personal items, and spending time with patients who may not have family or visitors.
Mike Ramsden began volunteering at the hospital after retiring from full-time employment working in sales, which involved regularly meeting and talking to new people.
“I applied to join the volunteer department mainly to put something back into the NHS, as a thank you for all the support family members had received during very difficult times health-wise.
“For an older or retired person, or anybody looking to create structure in their lives, volunteering is an ideal way forward. The NHS is a fantastic family of caring people.”
Volunteers who can give just a few hours a week or more time to spare will receive full training and ongoing support from Tameside and Glossop Integrated Care NHS Foundation Trust.
“Patient experience is at the heart of what we do,” said Sue Rothwell, Assistant Chief Nurse. “Many of our patients spend time in hospital without the support of loved ones. A simple conversation or a helping hand from a volunteer can significantly improve their emotional wellbeing and even aid in their recovery.”
People can find out more and apply at https://www.tamesideandglossopicft.nhs.uk/working-us/volunteering-and-work-experience or contact the voluntary services team by emailing voluntaryservices@tgh.nhs.uk or calling 0161 922 4618.