Volunteering - Could you share the care?

Our volunteers are an important part of our team. They make a significant difference to our patients, visitors and our staff, and their assistance is greatly appreciated. With the growing demands on NHS staff growing all the time, the need for this support is also increasing.

We contain to be immensely grateful to the 200 men and women, of all ages and backgrounds who give their time so selflessly to provide non-clinical support.

Some of the roles volunteers are involved in include:-

• Helping in the wards and clinics
• Chaplaincy
• A & E listeners
• Members of Patient Council
• Hospital Car Service
• Hospital Radio
• Running shops and cafes
• Gardeners
• Library trolley
• Health walk leaders

Why Volunteer?

Volunteering requires commitment, both of energy and time.

Our volunteers are unpaid – apart from travel expenses – so why do it?  There are many reasons, including:

• Job satisfaction
• The chance to gain experience and develop new skills
• Social contact and activity
• The opportunity to help other people
• A rewarding and fun experience

What volunteers say

This is what volunteers say about their involvement:

‘Everyday is different – funny, sad, demanding, challenging – but never dull’

‘Volunteering really spices up my life. I would recommend every one of my friends to join in because it is such a great opportunity.’

Other Frequently Asked Questions

Click here to see other frequently asked questions.

Electronic volunteers guide

Contact us

If you feel you might be interested in joining our Volunteer Service, do please get in touch with our Volunteer Co-ordinator Richard Dent in the Human Resources Department at St Mary's Hospital, Parkhurst Road, NEWPORT, Isle of Wight, PO30 5TG or on 019983-822099 ext 6246 or by e-mail to volunteer@iow.nhs.uk.  We would be delighted to hear from you.   Alternatively please complete the volunteer application form available to download here as word and PDF documents.