Published on: 31st May 2019
Volunteers Week is from 1 to 7 June and we simply can’t thank our 151 volunteers enough.
Their contributions are invaluable in improving our organisation and enhancing the range of services offered to patients, their relatives and carers.
Volunteering is an excellent way to meet new people, share or develop your skills and gain valuable experience. Many of our volunteers have said their own wellbeing and confidence has improved as a result.
Janet volunteers on some of our adult wards at Tameside General Hospital, along with her dog Muttley.
Janet and MuttleyMuttley has received pets therapy training, which helps him to bring joy, comfort and companionship to many of our service users.
Janet said: “I wanted to volunteer to give back to the services that helped me; and it helps me to maintain my own recovery and wellbeing. I love going on the wards and seeing Muttley cheer up the service users.”
“Woof!”added Muttley in agreement.
Here are lots of ways you can get involved:
Supporting service user activities
Our volunteers help to run lots of activities that benefit and help our service users to relax, such as arts and crafts and cookery.
Befriending
Having someone to talk to, or listen, is hugely important to our service users. Sometimes this could include playing games, encouraging people to take part in activities, or simply reading through newspapers.
Walk and talk
Supporting walks around local parks for our service users with dementia and their carers, while reminiscing and encouraging social interaction.
Meal time assistant
Helping to prepare and clear dining areas, assisting staff with feeding service users who need support, and making mealtimes more sociable.
Administrator
This role supports the day to day running of our services, such as reception duties, gathering feedback and general admin tasks.
Governors
Volunteers who are responsible for making sure the views of our local communities and members are considered in developing our services. Click here to find out more.
Get involved
If you have time to spare, have skills to share and enjoy meeting people, then we want to hear from you! Contact Allison, our volunteer co-ordinator, on 0161 716 3385 or click here to find out more.