Volunteering

Making a difference

Every day volunteers are making a big difference to the lives of patients, carers and staff across County Durham and Darlington.

More than 150 people are involved in volunteering activities across the Trust's hospital and community sites.

Whether meeting and greeting people in our hospitals, supporting the staff on the wards and within various departments or raising money, the helping hands of volunteers reach out to all parts of hospital and community life.

We very much value the contribution that volunteers make to our services.

Why do we have volunteers?

• they complement the work of staff
• they support patients, relatives and visitors
• they help to promote a more friendly, personal and social atmosphere
• they have extra time to chat with and listen to patients and their relatives
• they choose to give their time freely for the benefit of others.

Our aims

• ensure existing volunteers feel valued
• increase the recruitment of volunteers within the Trust
• support everyone within the Trust involved in volunteering.

What do volunteers do?

• general support within wards and departments
• assisting with meal times
• hospital radio
• welcoming and greeting patients and visitors
• assisting in the Macmillan information centre
• assisting with patient surveys
• volunteer drivers

What are the benefits of volunteering?

• it helps you to become involved in the community
• you can benefit people
• it can help you to return to work after a break
• it can help you build your confidence
• it helps you meet new people.

Volunteer to Career

Are you interested in a career in the NHS?

If so, speak to us about the Volunteer to Career Programme which identifies a pathway for volunteers to develop their careers in health and care.

Volunteers will receive first hand experience of what it's like working within the NHS which will hopefully encourage them to apply for jobs within County Durham & Darlington NHS Foundation Trust.

How do I become a volunteer?

If you are interested in becoming a volunter, please complete the volunteer application form which is in the related publications section on this page.

If you have any other queries, please contact the Patient Experience Team on Freephone 0800 783 5774 or email cddft.patientexperiencevolunteers@nhs.net