Friends of Surbiton and Tolworth Health Community

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Volunteering
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There are many different reasons that inspire people to volunteer, and these reasons can be as varied as the different types of volunteering opportunities on offer. Whatever your inspiration we have flexible volunteering opportunities for you, depending on your skills, interests and how much time you are able to give.

There are also many benefits for people who volunteer in hospitals
Volunteering provides an excellent opportunity to make new friends and work as part of a team. Many volunteers feel a sense of belonging and of being valued.  Recent research has shown that 60 per cent of Britons believe that volunteers play a vital role in the NHS.

• For the volunteer

Volunteering in hospitals also provides a chance to learn new skills or keep up with their old ones - it’s no surprise that many volunteers have worked at the hospitals where they now volunteer - you may be working towards a qualification or need a stepping stone back into employment within a health environment and want to gain valuable experience. Volunteering will give you a chance for personal development and to help build your confidence.

• For the patients

Sixty-three per cent of Britons agree that volunteers provide essential emotional support to patients when doctors and nurses are stretched for time. The help volunteers offer should not be underestimated - even to spend a little time to stop and have a chat can make a huge difference on the patient’s well-being, especially if they have no one else to come and visit them, or to offer them. Many volunteers find volunteering in healthcare is rewarding because you can see improvements in the patients you support.

Volunteers also provide a respite from regular daily hospital life, a connection with the world outside and a friendly face to rely on.

• For the hospital

There are approximately 14,000 volunteers working in hospitals across England, Scotland and Wales, all providing vital support to patients, staff and visitors, every single day of the year.  Many people have a close association with their local hospital, and by volunteering are able to give something back in lieu of the support they may have received in the past.


Hospital trolleys
Go on, give us a push! Could you help do a round with our hospital trolleys? Become a volunteer today...

CONTACT THE FRIENDS ...

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Acknowledgement:  The Royal Voluntary Service  ...   www.royalvoluntaryservice.org.uk

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