Change how menu appearsVOLUNTEERING IN THE DHSS
Welcome
The Department of Health and Social Security recognises the valuable work that volunteers do and we are keen to recruit more volunteers, to a variety of roles. As a volunteer, you will complement the work of health and social care professionals and other paid employees.
What kind of things can volunteers do?
Volunteers are involved in a wide variety of activities depending on their particular interests. Many volunteers work directly with patients/residents, assisting with serving meals and drinks and helping patients/residents to eat or drink. Talking and listening is important and volunteers are actively encouraged to do this. Other volunteers prefer to be ‘Meeters and Greeters’ and act as guides, showing visitors around hospitals or residential homes. Others prefer to be more behind the scenes, helping staff with administration and clercial tasks. Whatever role you take on will be of benefit to the many people who need support from Department of Health and Social Security services.
We currently offer a variety of volunteer opportunities at locations Island wide. They include:
- Noble’s Hospital
- Ramsey and District Cottage Hospital
- Nursing and Residential homes across the Island
- Each year we celebrate Volunteers Week
What sort of people are we looking for?
A wide variety of people, from all walks of life, who are caring, sympathetic and understanding. You may be:
- Retired, with skills and life experiences to offer
- In employment, but with time to spare for others
- Thinking of a career in health or social service and wishing to gain some experience to see if it is for you
- Unemployed, and looking to gain skills
Note You must be aged 16 years or older.
What will I do as volunteer?
You will provide that extra personal service, which can make a difference to someone who is receiving care and treatment or their family and carers. You will provide a valuable link between patients/residents and the outside world. You may be able to help in ways that free paid employees to concentrate on other duties.
What will you do for me as a volunteer?
We will value your unique contribution and never regard you as a substitute for paid employees. We will value the skills and experience you bring with you to the role of volunteer. We will provide you with an identity badge and if required, protective wear. We will give you any training you need to be successful at what you do. We will ensure you receive the support you need, as the Volunteer Coordinator will be able to help you with any queries, or listen to any ideas you might have.
How much time do I need to give?
All time given is valuable and worthwhile. We would only expect you to give an amount that was easy for you to fit into your current commitments.
Who can I talk to about volunteering opportunties?
- Noble’s Hospital: Alison Lester, Volunteer Services Coordinator, please telephone 01624 650720.Click here to find out more about Volunteering at Noble's Hospital
- Ramsey and District Cottage Hospital: Kath Mylchreest, Volunteer Services Manager, please telephone 01624 811822.
- Social Services (Nursing and Residential Homes): please telephone 01624 686179
Volunteers Week, 12th – 16th May 2008
Noble’s Hospital celebrated Volunteers Week by continuing the ‘Back to the Floor’ initiative.
David Killip and Avril Dixon
Staff members of the Hospital, Sandra Pressley, Ian Cooil, and Michael Morrison all gave time to volunteering. Barbara Scott, Hospital Manager, gave a ‘day in the life of ….’ talk to the volunteers. She enlightened them into the insights and challenges on managing such a busy Hospital.
Alison Lester, Margaret Bell + Ian Cooil
The week ended with a thanksgiving service for volunteers, patients, visitors and staff in the Hospital chapel. This was followed by a buffet and the ‘Volunteer of the Year Award’ which was presented to Margaret Bell by Ian Cooil, Purchasing and Supplies Manager. Margaret has been volunteering for 14 years on the reception desk. Her presence is very much appreciated by all who visit the Hospital, her knowledge and experience in dealing with enquiries and giving directions is invaluable and she always assists visitors in a professional manner.
The Hospital is currently staging a photographic exhibition of ‘Who our volunteers are’ which will raise the profile of the great work our volunteers do and hopefully encourage others to get involved.
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