From driving patients to hospital to offering bedside emotional support, our volunteers make a huge difference to our staff, patients and visitors.
We welcome applications for volunteering from across our community and know that volunteers bring a diversity of experience, background, skill, age and outlooks which add more value to our Trust’s services.
What do our volunteers tell us?
“Being in hospital can be very lonely and distressing for patients so I feel privileged to spend time with patients, put a smile on their faces, and improve their hospital stay in whatever way I can.”
“I volunteer because I want to support the over-stretched NHS. I am so proud to make even a small difference to the patients’ stay in hospital and hopefully brighten the days of both patients and clinical staff.”
“Volunteering has been a lifeline for me and in the process I’m helping patients by providing support, whether it be making a cup of tea or having a friendly chat.”
“I really enjoy volunteering as it enables me to help the patients who need it the most. I have gained valuable insight into careers within the NHS, helping to prepare me for my future career in medicine.”
Who can volunteer?
As long as you’re older than 16 years old, anyone can volunteer with us.
We welcome volunteers of all backgrounds, experiences, outlooks and skills to benefit our patients. You simply need to be a people person.
There is no upper age limit, however you must be physically able to fulfil the duties of the role you’ve chosen.
Our hospitals are based in Stockton-on-Tees and Hartlepool so please make sure you can safely get to and from our Trust.
The hours and role can be adapted to fit around your life and interests. Some of our volunteers are gaining valuable work experience for their future careers, while others would simply like to fill their spare time by chatting to our patients.
If you’re considering volunteering, we ask that you make a commitment of six months.
What do volunteers do?
Our volunteering roles are varied, interesting and rewarding. Our volunteering help with a wide range of tasks including:
- Meeting and greeting patients and visitors
- Driving patients to and from hospital
- Befriending, talking and listening to patients
- Supporting patients during mealtimes
- Recreational activities, such as reading and playing games
- Offering emotional support to patients having a difficult time
- Delivering medication and aids to patients
We also have volunteer opportunities with external organisations that are based in our hospitals, including:
- Royal voluntary service
- League of friends
- Radio stitch
- Book base
How to apply
If you think a volunteer role at North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust is right for you, please contact our volunteer support team.
They will walk you through the application process and are available to answer any questions you might have.
Once you have applied, we will complete a disclosure and barring process (DBS) which checks criminal records. Please do not be put off as not all convictions prevent you from volunteering with us.
