VOLUNTEERING IN THE ISLE OF MAN DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH
The Department of Health 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 professionals and other paid employees.
In November 2011, the Noble's Hospital Volunteers Service was bestowed the prestigious Queen's Award for Voluntary Service. A formal presentation took place at Government House, hosted by the Lieutenant Governor, His Excellency Mr Adam Wood.
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 hospital's. Others prefer to be more behind the scenes, helping staff with administration and clerical tasks. Whatever role you take on will be of benefit to the many people who need support from the Department of Health.
- The Meet and Greet Service at the Welcomer’s Desk in the main entrance and in the outpatient clinic areas
- Flower Arrangers who are responsible for the beautiful floral displays seen on special occasions and in the Hospital Chapel
- Ward library trolley
- Lunchtime meditation sessions for staff, patients and visitors
- Red Cross neck and shoulder massage for staff and patients
- Red Cross skin camouflage clinic
Red Cross shop trolley
We currently offer a variety of volunteer opportunities at the following locations.
- Noble’s Hospital
- Ramsey and District Cottage Hospital
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 services 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 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.
Volunteers achieve Level 2 in Customer Service
Two volunteers from Noble’s Hospital have
recently passed the Qualification Credit
Framework (QCF) Level 2 in Customer
Service. We are extremely pleased to be able
to be able to offer QCF study to our
volunteers. The volunteers are usually the
first point of contact for anyone visiting
Noble’s Hospital and it is very important that
we provide a high level of customer service.
Ruth Barnes and Linda Barron have worked hard to achieve this award and have set the standard for the volunteers who will be working towards this award in the future.
They have put many hours of study into this, in addition to their volunteering hours. They should be as proud of their achievement as I am.
Who can I talk to about volunteering opportunities?
- Noble’s Hospital: Alison Lester, Volunteer Services Coordinator, please telephone +44 (0) 1624 650720 or email Volunteers.nobles@gov.im
- Ramsey and District Cottage Hospital: Kath Mylchreest, Volunteer Services Manager, please telephone +44 (0) 1624 811822 or Email: Kathy.Mylchreest@gov.im
The Hospital has a range of volunteer services providing that extra element of support for patients and visitors, these services are constantly under development. Currently we are expanding our “dining companion” services where volunteers assist ward staff with the lunch time meal for patients; assisting the patient whilst they eat their meal; other areas of the volunteer services are also under development. To help us develop the volunteer service we are looking for individuals who can offer some voluntary time to the Hospital and are willing to train for a new role providing that extra element to our patient services. To enquire about such oppertunities please contact Alison Lester.
