Willing volunteers wanted for Scarborough and Bridlington

Would be volunteers are being offered the opportunity to improve patients’ lives during their stay at Scarborough and Bridlington Hospitals by becoming a dining companion.

Food plays a vital part in the healing process and dining companions are an important part of the team to help ensure patients’ nutritional requirements are met. Working with ward staff, dining companions can help to support and encourage patients at meal times, so that they are able to access their food more effectively and enjoy their meals more.

Staff Nurse Sue Bolton said: “Volunteer dining companions have joined the team of nurses and ward based staff who help our gentlemen patients on Ann Wright Ward at meal times. As a team we value the help and support that our volunteers give to the elderly patients and the patients get a lot of pleasure from their company as well as them encouraging patients to enjoy their meals. We have had very positive responses of patients and ward staff alike.”

In the past the recruitment drives have generated huge interest and posts have quickly been filled by willing individuals keen to make a difference.

Libby Bowman a volunteer visitor since December 2012 said: “As well as being rewarding on an emotional level, volunteering has helped me develop my confidence and communication skills and provided a valuable insight into the career I hope to go into. I have met some lovely people, both staff and patients, and it’s great to feel like you're making a difference and cheering people up.”

The posts will be advertised on the NHS jobs website from 27 January and applications can be made online at www.jobs.nhs.uk or by calling 01723 385244 for an application pack.

31 January 2014