Ward Volunteer - Beccles Hospital

Ward Volunteers provide companionship and support to patients on the ward at Beccles Hospital, giving patients the opportunity to chat with someone. The role involves engaging with the patients on the ward and providing basic practical support to staff.

Shifts are available 7 days a week (subject to availability) with a suggested commitment of 2-3 hours a week at a regular agreed time. Fortnightly sessions can also be discussed if preferred. Weeks off for holidays and other commitments are fine.

Tasks may vary from session to session depending on the needs of the team and the patients, but are likely to include:

• Providing companionship to patients – talking with them, carrying out activities with them such as reading, jigsaws, games.
• Providing practical support to staff if required. This could include completing forms with patients, handing out menus, fetching stock and supplies.
• Assisting with the drinks round on the ward.
• Small admin tasks such as filing and making patients welcome packs.
• Going to the shop for patients for small non-essential items such as a magazine or preferred toiletries.
• Reporting any concerns you have about patients to a member of staff without delay.

Following an initial welcome call we will then carry out our recruitment checks, which includes a half day induction training session (this takes place in Lowestoft). You will require 2 character references and we will carry out a Standard level DBS check (at no cost to you). If you have previous convictions these will not necessarily prevent you from volunteering and we would still welcome your application. We assess any criminal record disclosures on a case by case basis and you will be supported through the application process by a volunteer coordinator.