Across Hywel Dda University Health Board, invaluable ‘Volunteering for Health’ volunteers give their time freely to support patients, services, and departments to improve the experience of patients in our hospitals.

Ali, from Pembrokeshire, volunteers in Withybush Hospital in Haverfordwest. She says: “Patients have been very engaging when I have done activities with them, and it’s been lovely to see their progress. I love seeing the positive impact myself and other volunteers have on patients’ well-being. It has helped me to understand the real difference people working in the NHS make.”

Carla, from Carmarthenshire, began her NHS career by volunteering in Glangwili Hospital in Carmarthen: “Volunteering gave me an opportunity to explore a new career path and boosted my confidence. I now work as a Health Care Support Worker in the hospital. I can’t thank the volunteering team enough.”

During National Volunteers Week (June 1-7), Lisa Gostling, Director of Workforce and Organisational Development/Deputy Chief Executive for the health board said: “I’m incredibly proud of all our volunteers within Hywel Dda and, on behalf of the Board, I would like to thank you all for selflessly giving your time, skills, and compassion to helping our patients and staff. Your contribution makes a difference every day, thank you.”

Volunteering provides real life experience of the work involved in healthcare. Volunteer support can be something as simple as chatting with a patient or helping visitors to find the right ward at visiting times.

Volunteer roles include pharmacy volunteers, befrienders, those who work with hospital shops or library trollies - or in a clinical setting such as a children's ward or emergency department.

For more information about volunteering or work experience opportunities with Hywel Dda University Health Board, visit Hywel Dda UHB, call 0300 3036138 (select option 3) or email [email protected]