University Hospitals Tees is marking a week to celebrate student volunteers by highlighting the impact so many have made across its hospitals — and encouraging more young people to consider volunteering.
Students aged 16 and over from schools, colleges and universities play a vital role in supporting patient care across the health group’s four hospital sites.
Volunteering offers students the chance to gain practical experience, develop confidence, and build skills that strengthen future study and job prospects.
Emmanuel Okafore, a psychology graduate from Teesside University and former volunteer at the University Hospital of North Tees, has shared his story as part of student volunteering week this week.
He said: “Volunteering has had a huge impact on my life and career, helping me transition from my previous role supporting children with special educational needs to a new career in healthcare.
“The chance to volunteer in a hospital was an opportunity to gain hands on experience within a healthcare environment, building my skills to communicate effectively, while contributing to society in a meaningful way.”
Working full time in NHS
Emmanuel now works as a paediatric continence associate practitioner at University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust, supporting children and families through assessment, intervention and rehabilitation.
He added: “Studying and volunteering has helped me to develop my communication skills, empathy and how to respond to, and support patients and families who are in distress, a skill which is used often in my current role.
“I continue to look for opportunities to give back to society, for the kindness and welcoming nature I have received since moving to the UK and working within the NHS. My ambitions for the future are to continue to support individuals and help them to fulfil their potential, improving their quality of life.”
Paul Wharton, head of volunteering at North Tees and Hartlepool, said: “
“Emmanuel is a great example of how volunteering opportunities can support to develop skills and experience. He had a dream to change his career and whilst he completed his study, volunteering helped him to develop his passion for supporting patients and move into employment in the NHS.”
Emma Vincent, deputy director, student futures, Teesside University, said: “At Teesside University, we are committed to delivering positive change that contributes to the economic, social and cultural success of our students, partners and the communities we serve.
“Emmanuel’s commitment shows how volunteering turns study into real‑world impact, building confidence, compassion and employability while strengthening our NHS partnerships. Completing 105 hours alongside his studies earned him a Gold Award at our 2025 Volun‑Cheers Awards and exemplifies the difference students make every day through our Volun‑Tees programme.”