Introduction
The organisation appreciates the key role volunteers play in complementing the work of our staff in support of patients families and carers. We welcome the varied and unique contributions volunteers make.
The Trust encourages, promotes and supports the involvement of volunteers within its hospitals and services and recognises the valuable contribution and efforts of these individuals who give freely of their time, energy and skills to benefit the Trust.
The relationship with volunteers is based on mutually agreed expectations about the role. Volunteers have different roles from the staff (and should not replace staff) and have different motivations and expectations.
The organisation has an inclusive approach to volunteering and aims to develop a wide range of accessible opportunities, thus ensuring volunteering is accessible and can help a diverse range of people get involved and improve reach into our communities and reduce health inequalities.
Because of the nature of hospital care we have a minimum age of 16 years to volunteer in our general volunteer service. However, through schemes such as the young carers different activities can be considered on a ‘project’ basis. Under this 16, work experience opportunities are arranged via schools only and will mostly be via Insight Days. Information on Work Experience can be accessed: Work Experience
Members of the public can also become involved in the Trust through our membership schemes Become a Member
Policy Details
| Download: | N/A |
| Compiled by: | Head of Patient Experience and Involvement |
| Ratified by: | Trust Executive Board |
| Date Ratified: | March 2025 |
| Date Issued: | May 2025 |
| Review Date: | March 2025 |
| Target Audience: | Public |
| Contact name: | Head of Patient Experience and Involvement |
