An Advance Care Planning Volunteer (ACP) is skilled in talking to patients about their wishes and preferences in the event that their health deteriorates and they are unable to discuss them. By discussing what is important to an individual and documenting it, helps patients achieve these wishes. Discussions can be as diverse as the medical (Do Not Attempt Resuscitation) DNAR decision, through to what kind of music you might like played at your funeral.
Volunteers will work with patients and sometimes, family members to create an Advance Care Plan. The Advance Care Plan is a document that is shared with health care professionals, NHS 111, Ambulance Services as well as the patient and their family so that the patient’s wishes are clear and respected by all they may come across in the delivery of their healthcare.
Having an ACP conversation requires a skilled facilitator who can talk about death and dying with warmth and compassion. These are conversations that are increasingly a normal part of the way in which we deliver hospital care. Volunteers are especially well placed to take the time needed to have such sensitive and often, thought provoking conversation.
An ACP Volunteer may also support a patient to create their ACP onto a CMC record. Coordinate My Care (CMC) is an electronic system that is used in the Greater London by most Health Providers and is way of recording and communicating ACP wishes.
What’s involved?
Liaising with the ACP Facilitator, Palliative Care Team and clinical teams locally to identify patients who could benefit from an Advance Care Plan.
Providing information about Advance Care Planning to patients in a warm and compassionate manner.
Providing emotional support, reassurance and companionship to patients as they discuss their wishes in the event that their health deteriorates and they are unable to discuss them.
Making detailed records of ACP conversations for the purpose of documenting an ACP inside the Trust (via CRS) and via Coordinate My Care (CMC)
Sign-posting patients to their doctors and other professionals to discuss the medical aspects of an ACP
Facilitating conversations with family members whom the patient wishes to contribute to their ACP
Recording numbers of patients who participate in the service and the levels of service accepted as part of the monitoring and evaluation of the project.
Liaising with ward staff to inform them of any patient care related issues or feedback.
What Skills, Knowledge and Experience are helpful in this role?
Insight and empathy with the life questions associated with ill health, dying and bereavement.
Insight into what a ‘good death’ may look like for a diverse population of people
A compassionate and sensitive nature
Mature and resilient in an emotionally demanding situation
The confidence to communicate effectively with all staff, patients and visitors
An ability to use their initiative and work in a sensible and appropriate manner at all times
Reliable with good time keeping
Willing and able to make detailed records of their activities using a laptop
Able to work as part of a team, in a pair or on their own
Willing to engage and attend additional training and clinical supervision as offered for this role
Essential requirement / commitment:
Over 18 years of age
All ACP Volunteers will require an Enhanced DBS check
Commitment of at least 1 shift / 3 hours per week for a minimum of 6 months
Live, work or study within a 5 mile radius of Kingston Hospital
Before you get started with your volunteering role, you will be invited to attend the Volunteer Induction day. This will give you a full insight into the basic things that you need to know before you start your volunteering journey at the trust.
Participation in the training relevant to your role and confidential discussion of any reasonable adjustments required to meet your needs.
Participation in clinical supervision as relevant to this role
To live our values through your volunteering role at Kingston Hospital
Contacting the Volunteering Team
If you have any enquiries or would like to discuss anything further please do get in touch:
Admin Support volunteers help support the smooth running of hospital administration systems. This role is best suited to volunteers who enjoy an organised and systematic approach to tasks. No previous experience is required. We just need your commitment, patience, enthusiasm and reliability. Each volunteer supports a member of administrative staff or team who will guide you to the tasks they need help with.
This role varies dependent upon the location or department, however your role is likely to include tasks such as: filing duties (paper and electronic), photocopying, data entry, retrieving information (paper and electronic) and may include customer service duties such as meeting and greeting visitors/patients.
What will I be doing:
The Admin Support roles vary slightly, depending on which department you may be supporting. However there are a number of tasks and responsibilities that volunteers could be asked to help with:
General filing and office tasks
Sending appointment letters
Contacting patients to remind them of their appointments
Answering the telephone
Basic database entry or typing
Gathering information about patient experience
Some Admin support roles may also involve meeting and greeting visitors/patients for specific clinics.
What we are looking for:
Whilst no specific experience is required, Admin Support volunteers need to be organised and reliable with reasonable literacy and communication skills.
Can demonstrate a sense of maturity as well as compassion for others
Good communication and listening skills with a friendly attitude
An ability to use your own initiative
Aware of the principles of confidentiality in a hospital environment. The ability to maintain patient and service-users’ confidentiality is paramount to this role.
How will I be supported and what will I gain from this opportunity?
Join an enthusiastic volunteering team of people who want to make a difference, just like you.
Learn new skills and develop existing skills.
A buddy to support you through your initial induction.
It can contribute to your personal development and confidence.
You will be making an important contribution to your local community throughout your volunteering journey at the hospital.
Invitation to 2 x annual awards to celebrate the support our volunteers give. An opportunity to meet other volunteers at the trust.
Annual refresher training.
A reference to support applications – please kindly note that this is only provided after our minimum commitment has been met.
This role is for me, what next?
All our volunteering opportunity are opened 5 times a year. Please go to: Kingston Hospital Website –> Working for Us –> Volunteering (Please note the volunteering tab will only be available when our roles are live)
You will be invited to complete an online application via TRAC (online recruitment tool)
Should your application be successful we will offer you an interview, it is essential that you bring the following to your interview: 1) Email address for 2 x references (Please kindly note – 1 of the 2 references must have known you for longer than 3 year, we are happy to accept a character reference from a friend, but not a family member) 2) We require the following 3 forms of ID to process your application a. 1 x passport b. 1 x driving licence (a provisional licence is accepted) c. 2 x utility bill or bank statement (this must be dated within the last 3 months) If you don’t have these items please contact the team asap to discuss further.
Contacting the Volunteering Team
If you have any enquiries or would like to discuss anything further please do get in touch:
25 years ago the Cardiac support was created to support Cardiology patients. For this role we are looking for volunteers that have been patients to the cardiology department. This role is vital in supporting cardiology patients whilst they are receiving care.
What we are looking for:
Can demonstrate a sense of maturity as well as compassion for others
Good communication and listening skills with a friendly attitude
An ability to use your own initiative
Respect boundaries and confidentiality at all times
Essential requirement / commitment:
Over 16 years of age
All Volunteer Visitors will require a DBS check
Commitment of at least 1 shift / 3 hours per week for a minimum of 6 months and attend Cardiology Support group on the first Thursday of each Month.
Live, work or study within a 5 mile radius of Kingston Hospital
Before you get started with your volunteering role, you will be invited to attend the Volunteer Induction day. This will give you a full insight into the basic things that you need to know before you start your volunteering journey at the trust. This training is mandatory.
Participation in the training relevant to your role and confidential discussion of any reasonable adjustments required to meet your needs.
To live our values through your volunteering role at Kingston Hospital:
How will I be supported and what will I gain from this opportunity?
Join an enthusiastic volunteering team of people who want to make a difference, just like you.
Learn new skills and develop existing skills.
A buddy to support you through your initial induction.
It can contribute to your personal development and confidence.
You will be making an important contribution to your local community throughout your volunteering journey at the hospital.
Invitation to 2 x annual awards to celebrate the support our volunteers give. An opportunity to meet other volunteers at the trust.
Annual refresher training.
A reference to support applications – please kindly note that this is only provided after our minimum commitment has been met.
This role is for me, what next?
• All our volunteering opportunity are opened 4 times a year. Please go to: Kingston Hospital website working for us volunteering (Please note the volunteering tab will only be available when our roles are live) • You will be invited to complete an online application via TRAC (online recruitment tool) • Should your application be successful we will offer you an interview, it is essential that you bring the following to your interview:
1) Email address for 2 x references (Please kindly note – 1 of the 2 references must have known you for longer than 3 year, we are happy to accept a character reference from a friend, but not a family member)
2) We require the following forms of ID to process your application
A) 1 x passport
B) 1 x driving licence (a provisional licence is accepted)
C) 2 x utility bill or bank statement (this must be dated within the last 3 months)
If you don’t have these items please contact the team asap to discuss further.
Contacting the Volunteering Team
If you have any enquiries or would like to discuss anything further please do get in touch:
Ability to demonstrate a sense of maturity as well as compassion for others.
Enthusiastic, patient, reliable and willing to learn how to communicate with and support people living with Dementia.
Good communication and listening skills with a friendly attitude.
An ability to use your own initiative and assume responsibility for ensuring staff are aware of any difficulties patients and careers are experiencing.
Respect boundaries and understanding the importance of maintaining confidentiality at all times.
Essential requirement / commitment:
Aroma therapists / Reflexologist)
Registration of the British Acupuncture Council (BAcC) (For Acupuncture Therapists)
Membership of professional association eg.
Federation of Holistic Therapists (FHT)
Complementary Therapists Association (CTha)
Appropriate Insurance to practice
Over 18 years of age
All Volunteer Visitors will require a DBS check
Commitment of at least 1 shift / 3 hours per week for a minimum of 6 months
Live, work or study within a 5 mile radius of Kingston Hospital
Before you get started with your volunteering role, you will be invited to attend the Volunteer Induction day. This will give you a full insight into the basic things that you need to know before you start your volunteering journey at the trust. This training is mandatory.
Participation in the training relevant to your role and confidential discussion of any reasonable adjustments required to meet your needs.
To live our values through your volunteering role at Kingston Hospital:
How will I be supported and what will I gain from this opportunity?
Join an enthusiastic volunteering team of people who want to make a difference, just like you.
Learn new skills and develop existing skills.
A buddy to support you through your initial induction.
It can contribute to your personal development and confidence.
You will be making an important contribution to your local community throughout your volunteering journey at the hospital.
Invitation to 2 x annual awards to celebrate the support our volunteers give. An opportunity to meet other volunteers at the trust.
Annual refresher training.
A reference to support applications – please kindly note that this is only provided after our minimum commitment has been met.
This role is for me, what next?
All our volunteering opportunity are opened 5 times a year. Please go to: Kingston Hospital website working for us volunteering
(Please note the volunteering tab will only be available when our roles are live)
You will be invited to complete an online application via TRAC (online recruitment tool)
Should your application be successful we will offer you an interview, it is essential that you bring the following to your interview:
1) Email address for 2 x references (Please kindly note – 1 of the 2 references must have known you for longer than 3 year, we are happy to accept a character reference from a friend, but not a family member)
2) We require the following 3 forms of ID to process your application
A) 1 x passport
B) 1 x driving licence (a provisional licence is accepted)
C) 2 x utility bill or bank statement (this must be dated within the last 3 months) If you don’t have these items please contact the team asap to discuss further.
Contacting the Volunteering Team
If you have any enquiries or would like to discuss anything further please do get in touch:
Chaplaincy volunteers play an important role within our Hospital Chaplaincy Team. Volunteers can assist with the pastoral and spiritual support of patients of all faiths and philosophies of life, and can also help the Team with administration and the organisation of special events, such as open days, cultural celebrations and memorial services.
Chaplaincy volunteers visit are assigned wards to spend time with patients on a one-to-one basis, providing companionship and spiritual support as needed. Volunteers can assist patients with referral to a Chaplain to ensure any specific spiritual or religious needs are met. The Chaplaincy provides a Sitting Service to support families with loved ones who are nearing the end of life, and some volunteers are able to be involved in this.
Our Chaplaincy Volunteers are drawn from all faiths and all walks of life and need to be a member of good standing within their own faith or philosophical tradition. Volunteers will be willing to work in a multi-cultural setting, supporting without judgement those who may wish to explore their own concerns, beliefs and values. This role suits volunteers who enjoy meeting people, building rapport and have the maturity to listen to people who may be in distress. We welcome volunteers who can bring enthusiasm, reliability and commitment to this role.
What we are looking for:
Can demonstrate a sense of maturity as well as compassion for others
Caring, reliable and enjoy being with older people.
Ability to communicate well with patients, their relatives/friends.
Ability to support staff for the benefit of patients.
Ability to use your own initiative and assume responsibility for ensuring staff are aware of any difficulties patients and carers are experiencing.
Strong personal boundaries and confident to sign-post patients and carers to alternative sources of support, advocacy and information e.g. PALs, Staywell.
Understand the importance of maintaining patient confidentiality at all times.
Essential requirement / commitment:
Over 18 years of age
All Volunteer Visitors will require a DBS check
Commitment of at least 1 shift / 3 hours per week for a minimum of 6 months
Live, work or study within a 5 mile radius of Kingston Hospital
Before you get started with your volunteering role, you will be invited to attend the Volunteer Induction day. This will give you a full insight into the basic things that you need to know before you start your volunteering journey at the trust. This training is mandatory.
Participation in the training relevant to your role and confidential discussion of any reasonable adjustments required to meet your needs.
To live our values through your volunteering role at Kingston Hospital:
How will I be supported and what will I gain from this opportunity?
Join an enthusiastic volunteering team of people who want to make a difference, just like you.
Learn new skills and develop existing skills.
A buddy to support you through your initial induction.
It can contribute to your personal development and confidence.
You will be making an important contribution to your local community throughout your volunteering journey at the hospital.
Invitation to 2 x annual awards to celebrate the support our volunteers give. An opportunity to meet other volunteers at the trust.
Annual refresher training.
A reference to support applications – please kindly note that this is only provided after our minimum commitment has been met
This role is for me, what next?
All our volunteering opportunity are opened 5 times a year. Please go to: Kingston Hospital website working for us volunteering
(Please note the volunteering tab will only be available when our roles are live)
You will be invited to complete an online application via TRAC (online recruitment tool)
Should your application be successful we will offer you an interview, it is essential that you bring the following to your interview:
1) Email address for 2 x references (Please kindly note – 1 of the 2 references must have known you for longer than 3 year, we are happy to accept a character reference from a friend, but not a family member)
2) We require the following 3 forms of ID to process your application
A) 1 x passport
B) 1 x driving licence (a provisional licence is accepted)
C) 2 x utility bill or bank statement (this must be dated within the last 3 months) If you don’t have these items please contact the team asap to discuss further.
Contacting the Volunteering Team
If you have any enquiries or would like to discuss anything further please do get in touch:
Nutrition is a key element of recovery for our patients, and many of them are elderly, or have dementia, and need physical assistance with feeding. As a Dining Companion, you will be assisting ward staff and patients during mealtimes, which includes feeding some patients who need extra help.
What will I be doing:
As a Level 1 Dining Companion, you will be helping in the following ways:
Assisting the Nutrition Coordinator to deliver the right meal to each patient
Positioning trays, cutlery, cups etc. on tables so that patients can easily access them
Making sure patients have everything they need once their meal is served
Offering companionship to patients who request this during their mealtime
Encouraging and enabling patients to eat and drink
Helping patients with physical feeding and drinking when appropriate
Spotting ways to make the mealtime easier for patients, e.g. opening packets or cutting up food
Requesting adapted cutlery for patients who could benefit
Helping the ward hostess to collect finished trays
Handing out menus for the following meal and helping patients to complete them
Spotting simple ways to make patients more comfortable during mealtimes, e.g. getting an extra blanket if someone is cold
Completing Nutrition and Hydration Record Sheets as necessary for each patient you help
Liaising with professional staff to seek help for patients if they need it
Feeding back to your supervisor about your experiences
We aim to have Dining Companions in every medical ward for lunch and dinner, seven days a week. To support this, we ask volunteers to commit to one mealtime every week on a regular basis, for a minimum of six month. If you can give more time, we welcome this.
Lunchtime – 12.15 – 13.10
Dinner – 17.15 – 18.30
What we are looking for:
Can demonstrate a sense of maturity as well as compassion for others
Good communication and listening skills with a friendly attitude
An ability to use your own initiative
Respect boundaries and confidentiality at all times
Essential requirement / commitment:
Over 16 years of age
All Volunteer Visitors will require a DBS check
Commitment of at least 1 shift / 3 hours per week for a minimum of 6 months
Live, work or study within a 5 mile radius of Kingston Hospital
Before you get started with your volunteering role, you will be invited to attend the Volunteer Induction day. This will give you a full insight into the basic things that you need to know before you start your volunteering journey at the trust. This training is mandatory.
Participation in the training relevant to your role and confidential discussion of any reasonable adjustments required to meet your needs.
To live our values through your volunteering role at Kingston Hospital:
How will I be supported and what will I gain from this opportunity?
Join an enthusiastic volunteering team of people who want to make a difference, just like you.
Learn new skills and develop existing skills.
A buddy to support you through your initial induction.
It can contribute to your personal development and confidence.
You will be making an important contribution to your local community throughout your volunteering journey at the hospital.
Invitation to 2 x annual awards to celebrate the support our volunteers give. An opportunity to meet other volunteers at the trust.
Annual refresher training.
A reference to support applications – please kindly note that this is only provided after our minimum commitment has been met.
This role is for me, what next?
All our volunteering opportunity are opened 5 times a year. Please go to: Kingston Hospital website working for us volunteering
(Please note the volunteering tab will only be available when our roles are live)
You will be invited to complete an online application via TRAC (online recruitment tool)
Should your application be successful we will offer you an interview, it is essential that you bring the following to your interview:
1) Email address for 2 x references (Please kindly note – 1 of the 2 references must have known you for longer than 3 year, we are happy to accept a character reference from a friend, but not a family member)
2) We require the following 3 forms of ID to process your application
A) 1 x passport
B) 1 x driving licence (a provisional licence is accepted)
C) 2 x utility bill or bank statement (this must be dated within the last 3 months) If you don’t have these items please contact the team asap to discuss further.
Contacting the Volunteering Team
If you have any enquiries or would like to discuss anything further please do get in touch:
Almost 50% patients at Kingston Hospital over the age of 75 have dementia. This is almost double the national average for a hospital of our size. Volunteers play an important role in supporting patients with dementia and their families to have the best possible experience in hospital.
Dementia Volunteers work closely with the ward staff to create the best possible environment and personalised care for patients with dementia whilst in hospital. As a Dementia Volunteer you will be taking the time to get to know each patient and engaging them in activities that are tailored to their individual interests and abilities. This can significantly improve the patient’s wellbeing and help prevent functional decline. The skill, empathy and knowledge of Dementia Volunteers’ can also provide reassurance to family members that their loved one will receive the personalised care they need. You may assist with:
What will I be doing:
Helping patients to use ReMe software for reminiscence, stimulation and comfort
Sitting with the patient to provide companionship (and their carers as appropriate) to stimulate and engage in conversations on topics of interest to the patient.
Bedside or group therapeutic activities
Providing companionship at meal time and assistance to ensure mealtimes are pleasant and sociable for our patients with dementia.
Helping patients with physical feeding and drinking when appropriate
Listening to patients and helping them to express their views e.g using the Friends and Family Test and feeding back to the ward staff.
Help at group activities designed to promote wellbeing for patients with dementia, e.g. Memory Lane Lunch Club, music club, pop-up hairdressing salon and gentle exercise.
What we are looking for:
Ability to demonstrate a sense of maturity as well as compassion for others.
Enthusiastic, patient, reliable and willing to learn how to communicate with and support people living with Dementia.
Good communication and listening skills with a friendly attitude.
An ability to use your own initiative and assume responsibility for ensuring staff are aware of any difficulties patients and careers are experiencing.
Respect boundaries and understanding the importance of maintaining confidentiality at all times.
Essential requirement / commitment:
Over 16 years of age
All Volunteer Visitors will require a DBS check
Commitment of at least 1 shift / 3 hours per week for a minimum of 6 months
Live, work or study within a 5 mile radius of Kingston Hospital
Before you get started with your volunteering role, you will be invited to attend the Volunteer Induction day. This will give you a full insight into the basic things that you need to know before you start your volunteering journey at the trust. This training is mandatory.
Participation in the training relevant to your role and confidential discussion of any reasonable adjustments required to meet your needs.
To live our values through your volunteering role at Kingston Hospital:
How will I be supported and what will I gain from this opportunity?
Join an enthusiastic volunteering team of people who want to make a difference, just like you.
Learn new skills and develop existing skills.
A buddy to support you through your initial induction.
It can contribute to your personal development and confidence.
You will be making an important contribution to your local community throughout your volunteering journey at the hospital.
Invitation to 2 x annual awards to celebrate the support our volunteers give. An opportunity to meet other volunteers at the trust.
Annual refresher training.
A reference to support applications – please kindly note that this is only provided after our minimum commitment has been met.
This role is for me, what next?
All our volunteering opportunity are opened 5 times a year. Please go to: Kingston Hospital website working for us volunteering
(Please note the volunteering tab will only be available when our roles are live)
You will be invited to complete an online application via TRAC (online recruitment tool)
Should your application be successful we will offer you an interview, it is essential that you bring the following to your interview:
1) Email address for 2 x references (Please kindly note – 1 of the 2 references must have known you for longer than 3 year, we are happy to accept a character reference from a friend, but not a family member)
2) We require the following 3 forms of ID to process your application
A) 1 x passport
B) 1 x driving licence (a provisional licence is accepted)
C) 2 x utility bill or bank statement (this must be dated within the last 3 months) If you don’t have these items please contact the team asap to discuss further.
Contacting the Volunteering Team
If you have any enquiries or would like to discuss anything further please do get in touch:
The Emergency Department (ED) Volunteer provides the practical and emotional to patients while they are being assessed in our busy ED department. As a busy service, especially in the evenings and on weekends, the ED Volunteer is a front-of-house role. You will play an integral role in providing comfort and reassurance to patients. This involves practical tasks such as seeking and providing information about waiting times, making and serving refreshments, offering family members and carers respite, sourcing clothing and other last minute items and providing targeted support for patients with Dementia to guarantee all patients and family members a positive patient experience in a busy and fast-paced service.
Volunteers are needed 7 days a week, and shifts are available between 8am and 11pm. To support this, we ask volunteers to commit to one shift of 3 hours per week for a minimum of 6 months.
What will I be doing:
This is a varied role which will depend on how busy the department is on any given day. However there are a number of tasks and responsibilities that volunteers will be regularly asked to help with:
Regular rounds, including the waiting areas to ascertain children, vulnerable or disabled patients and prioritise your time according to what patients, staff and visitors need.
The patient may be alone and nervous or distressed so if appropriate offer to keep them company until a member of the clinical team needs to see them again. Try and give reassurance and ascertain any information and resources that will make their visit more comfortable.
It includes supporting children and families and escorting them to the appropriate areas.
Offering refreshments and snacks where appropriate.
Helping patients with physical feeding and drinking when appropriate, and assisting with drinks when required.
What we are looking for:
Can demonstrate a sense of maturity as well as compassion for others in an often busy environment.
Caring, reliable and enjoy being with older people.
Ability to communicate well with patients, their relatives/friends using a sensitive approach.
Ability to support staff for the benefit of patients.
Ability to use your own initiative and assume responsibility for ensuring staff are aware of any difficulties patients and carers are experiencing.
Strong personal boundaries and confident.
Understand the importance of maintaining patient confidentiality at all times is paramount to this role.
Essential requirement / commitment:
Over 18 years of age
All Volunteer Visitors will require a DBS check
Commitment of at least 1 shift / 3 hours per week for a minimum of 6 months
Live, work or study within a 5 mile radius of Kingston Hospital
Before you get started with your volunteering role, you will be invited to attend the Volunteer Induction day. This will give you a full insight into the basic things that you need to know before you start your volunteering journey at the trust. This training is mandatory.
Participation in the training relevant to your role and confidential discussion of any reasonable adjustments required to meet your needs.
To live our values through your volunteering role at Kingston Hospital:
How will I be supported and what will I gain from this opportunity?
Join an enthusiastic volunteering team of people who want to make a difference, just like you.
Learn new skills and develop existing skills.
A buddy to support you through your initial induction.
It can contribute to your personal development and confidence.
You will be making an important contribution to your local community throughout your volunteering journey at the hospital.
Invitation to 2 x annual awards to celebrate the support our volunteers give. An opportunity to meet other volunteers at the trust.
Annual refresher training.
A reference to support applications – please
This role is for me, what next?
All our volunteering opportunity are opened 5 times a year. Please go to: Kingston Hospital website working for us volunteering
(Please note the volunteering tab will only be available when our roles are live)
You will be invited to complete an online application via TRAC (online recruitment tool)
Should your application be successful we will offer you an interview, it is essential that you bring the following to your interview:
1) Email address for 2 x references (Please kindly note – 1 of the 2 references must have known you for longer than 3 year, we are happy to accept a character reference from a friend, but not a family member)
2) We require the following 3 forms of ID to process your application
A) 1 x passport
B) 1 x driving licence (a provisional licence is accepted)
C) 2 x utility bill or bank statement (this must be dated within the last 3 months) If you don’t have these items please contact the team asap to discuss further.
Contacting the Volunteering Team
If you have any enquiries or would like to discuss anything further please do get in touch:
Elderly patients lose 2-5 % of their muscle strength daily with bed rest in Hospital. 10 days Bedrest is equivalent to 10 years muscle ageing in the elderly. There is a big National drive around getting our Elderly patients out of bed and moving. The 1000 days campaign is about acknowledging that many of our Elderly patients have a life expectancy of up to 1000 days. The focus is on doing what we can to maintain their function in Hospital to maximize their quality of life on discharge home to a place of choice. Gentle Movement Volunteers are essential to helping our elderly patients maintain their strength and function through exercises whilst in Hospital.
Gentle Movement Volunteers will be assigned to our 3 state of the art Dementia Friendly wards. Physiotherapists will prescribe specific exercises tailored to each patient which the volunteers will practice with the patients.
What we are looking for:
Can demonstrate a sense of maturity as well as compassion for others
Good communication and listening skills with a friendly attitude are essential as many of our patients have barriers to communication such as deafness and dementia.
An ability to use your own initiative
Respect boundaries and confidentiality at all times
No specific physio skills are needed, however volunteers should have an interest in promoting patients health and well -being.
Essential requirement / commitment:
Over 16 years of age
All Gentle Movement Volunteers will require a DBS check
Commitment of at least 1 shift / 3 hours per week for a minimum of 6 months
Live, work or study within a 5 mile radius of Kingston Hospital
Before you get started with your volunteering role, you will be invited to attend the Volunteer Induction day. This will give you a full insight into the basic things that you need to know before you start your volunteering journey at the trust. This training is mandatory.
Participation in the training relevant to your role and confidential discussion of any reasonable adjustments required to meet your needs.
To live our values through your volunteering role at Kingston Hospital:
How will I be supported and what will I gain from this opportunity?
Join an enthusiastic volunteering team of people who want to make a difference, just like you.
121 support from one of our Peer Support Volunteers.
Learn new skills and develop existing skills.
Bespoke training from our physiotherapy team.
The experience can contribute to your personal development and confidence.
You will be making an important contribution to your local community throughout your volunteering journey at the hospital.
Invitation to 2 x annual awards to celebrate the support our volunteers give. An opportunity to meet other volunteers at the trust.
Annual refresher training.
A reference to support applications – please kindly note that this is only provided after our minimum commitment has been met.
This role is for me, what next?
All our volunteering opportunity are opened 5 times a year. Please go to: Kingston Hospital website working for us volunteering
(Please note the volunteering tab will only be available when our roles are live)
You will be invited to complete an online application via TRAC (online recruitment tool)
Should your application be successful we will offer you an interview, it is essential that you bring the following to your interview:
1) Email address for 2 x references (Please kindly note – 1 of the 2 references must have known you for longer than 3 year, we are happy to accept a character reference from a friend, but not a family member)
2) We require the following 3 forms of ID to process your application
A) 1 x passport
B) 1 x driving licence (a provisional licence is accepted)
C) 2 x utility bill or bank statement (this must be dated within the last 3 months) If you don’t have these items please contact the team asap to discuss further.
Contacting the Volunteering Team
If you have any enquiries or would like to discuss anything further please do get in touch:
Being a hospital radio volunteer is a really fun role. You’ll be collecting requests from patients on the ward, presenting your very own show, helping with fundraising and publicity, producing the hospital radio magazine, setting up patients on the Hospedia system and providing headphones. This role will be up your street if you love meeting new people, are friendly and accommodating and able to get on well with people of different ages and backgrounds.
What you will achieve:
During your probation, you will learn:
What’s involved in the day to day running of the radio station and lots of opportunities to get involved.
How to interact with patients and staff to collect song requests from the hospital wards.
Learn different styles of presenting a radio show, including talk-show, special interest as well as music radio shows (applicable to presenter role only).
How to research and interact with guests to enhance your programmes (applicable to presenter role only).
What’s involved?
There are several stages in the application and assessment to become a volunteer with KHR.
Stage 1: This is an online application or by pre arrangement with the KHR committee members. If your application meets the basic criteria for volunteering at Kingston Hospital and you can demonstrate a genuine interest in hospital radio, you will be invited to attend an informal individual assessment.
Stage 2: An informal assessment is our chance to get to know you better and give you more of an opportunity to tell us about yourself and why you are interested to join KHR specifically. We are looking for people who can:
Make a genuine commitment to completing your training with KHR, and able to make a commitment of at least 2 years as a station member.
Understand the four core values of Kingston Hospital and demonstrate an aptitude for these qualities and behaviours.
Demonstrate how being a member of KHR will enrich their personal life and/or career goals.
Demonstrate a specific interest in hospital broadcasting.
Those who are successful at the stage of Assessment will be invited to observe a series of shows with one of the KHR’s radio presenters and an introduction to the studio and equipment. After consultation, the KHR committee members will make a final decision to offer a role with KHR.
Stage 3: Successful applicants will take part in a minimum of 3 month probation period where you will learn what’s involved in the day to day running of the radio station and be given lots of opportunities to get involved. You will also be required to collect song requests from the hospital wards and assist in supporting radio presenters with their live programmes. During the probation period if you express a desire to be a radio presenter you will be taught the skills involved in radio broadcasting and how to use key pieces of equipment. You will also be introduced to different styles of presenting and producing a radio show. There will be another selection by the KHR committee members at the end of the probationary period to becoming a member of KHR.
Stage 4: The final stage of your application. The successful applicant will be offered a role with KHR with a specific set of roles and activities.
Commitment
Minimum of 3 month probation period.
Following its successful completion and approval to KHR Member status, volunteers are expected to give a minimum of 2 years support KHR.
Who should apply?
You do not need to have any specific skills or direct radio experience to be a successful applicant. However, the following are useful in this role:
An outgoing personality
Comfortable talking about yourself and talking to others in social situations
Reliable and committed to your volunteering and/or professional roles
Good at learning new skills, including technical skills to operate radio equipment
A genuine interest in hospital broadcasting, as opposed to generic radio broadcasting or other specialist area.
Essential Requirements
Over 18 years of age.
All Volunteer Visitors will require a DBS check
Commitment of at least 1 shift / 3 hours per week for a minimum of 3 months during your probation, 2 years thereafter.
Before you get started with your volunteering role, you will be invited to attend the Volunteer Induction day. This will give you a full insight into the basic things that you need to know before you start your volunteering journey at the trust. This training is mandatory.
Participation in the training relevant to your role and confidential discussion of any reasonable adjustments required to meet your needs.
To live our values through your volunteering role at Kingston Hospital.
How will I be supported and what will I gain from this opportunity?
Join an enthusiastic volunteering team of people who want to make a difference, just like you.
Learn new skills and develop existing skills.
A group of peer volunteers to support you through your initial induction.
It can contribute to your personal development and confidence.
You will be making an important contribution to your local community throughout your volunteering journey at the hospital.
Invitation to 2 x annual awards to celebrate the support our volunteers give. An opportunity to meet other volunteers at the trust.
Annual refresher training.
A reference to support applications – please kindly note that this is only provided after our minimum commitment has been met.
To apply:
Please apply, please check our website https://www.kingstonhospital.nhs.uk/get-involved/volunteering/volunteer-vacancies.aspx regularly or search via NHS Jobs.
For further information, contact us on 0208 934 3620
This role is for me, what next?
All our volunteering opportunities are opened 5 times a year. Please go to: – Kingston Hospital website working for us volunteering – (Please note the volunteering tab will only be available when our roles are live)
You will be invited to complete an online application via TRAC (online recruitment tool)
Should your application be successful we will offer you an interview, it is essential that you bring the following to your interview:
1) Email address for 2 x references (Please kindly note – 1 of the 2 references must have known you for longer than 3 year, we are happy to accept a character reference from a friend, but not a family member)
2) We require the following 3 forms of ID to process your application
A) 1 x passport
B) 1 x driving licence (a provisional licence is accepted)
C) 2 x utility bill or bank statement (this must be dated within the last 3 months)
If you don’t have these items please contact the team asap to discuss further.
Contacting the Volunteering Team
If you have any enquiries or would like to discuss anything further please do get in touch:
The Macmillan Support Volunteers at Kingston Hospital provide practical, emotional and social support to people living with and beyond cancer, their carers and relatives. Previous experience is not required. We just need your commitment, patience, enthusiasm and reliability.
What will I be doing?
Macmillan Support Volunteers offer a range of help which will be tailored to the individual patient’s needs. Duties may include:
Visiting wards to offer information to inpatients on the support available
Liaising with hospital staff to increase awareness of the support volunteers can offer
Completing a checklist with patients to identify what help would be useful
Offering impartial and non-directive emotional support to patients
Support to inpatients around discharge from hospital, including essential shopping at the point of discharge
Providing information, signposting and referring to community and voluntary and other support services and monitoring these referrals
Requesting feedback from patients
Follow up support:
Telephoning patients or carers who have taken up the telephone support option at agreed times on a weekly or fortnightly basis
Support to carers:
Providing a listening ear
Signposting to further relevant carers’ support services
Other essential tasks:
Updating paperwork and monitoring systems
Actively supporting and communicating with the Macmillan Volunteering Project Officer and other Macmillan Volunteers
What makes a good Macmillan Support Volunteer?
Volunteers do not need to have any specific previous experience and all training will be provided. You do need to be non-judgemental, patient and reliable.
This role will suit those who enjoy supporting people and we welcome volunteers who can be empathic and understanding of the issues facing people affected by cancer.
Volunteers do not give out any advice or information about medical or care needs.
We value the experience of people who have had a personal cancer journey but suggest waiting for around 1 year post treatment before applying. If you would like an informal discussion around this or any other enquiries please contact Catherine Evans, Macmillan Volunteering Project Officer on 020 8934 2959 or 07917 721870.
Volunteers will be expected to demonstrate the following in their role:
Be caring, reliable and enjoy being with people
Communicate well with patients, their relatives/friends as well as with health professionals and other hospital staff
Team working with staff and volunteers
Strong personal boundaries and confident to sign-post patients and carers to alternative sources of support, advocacy and information
Understanding of the importance of maintaining patient confidentiality at all times
Essential Requirements
Over 18 years of age
All Volunteers will require a standard DBS check
Commitment of at least 1 shift / 3 hours per week for a minimum of 6 months
Live, work or study within a 5 mile radius of Kingston Hospital
Before you get started with your volunteering role, you will be invited to attend the Volunteer Induction day. This will give you a full insight into the basic things that you need to know before you start your volunteering journey at the trust. This training is mandatory.
Participation in the training relevant to your role and confidential discussion of any reasonable adjustments required to meet your needs.
To live our values through your volunteering role at Kingston Hospital
Recruitment & Induction Training
This role requires the following:
1 day mandatory Volunteer Induction Day: Monday 16th December 2019
Macmillan Induction and training programme including e-learning
Sage and Thyme Communication workshop: Dates to be confirmed
Buddy sessions shadowing another volunteer
Further training and refresher sessions as needed
How will I be supported and what will I gain from this opportunity?
The Macmillan Support Volunteers will be supported by the Macmillan Volunteering Project Officer as well as volunteer to volunteer peer support. You will also have access to further training opportunities including the Macmillan Cancer Support Learn Zone.
Be part of a hospital team dedicated to helping people affected by cancer
Join an enthusiastic volunteering team of people who want to make a difference
The Macmillan Volunteering Project Officer will check-in with you regularly to see how you’re getting on and support you around the potential emotional impact of this role
Learn new skills and develop existing skills
Invitation to 2 x annual awards events to celebrate the support our volunteers give
Annual refresher training
A reference to support applications – please kindly note that this is only provided after our minimum commitment has been met
This role is for me, what next?
All our volunteering opportunities are opened 4 times a year. Please go to:
Kingston Hospital website working for us volunteering
(Please note the volunteering tab will only be available when our roles are live)
You will be invited to complete an online application via TRAC (online recruitment tool)
Should your application be successful we will offer you an assessment, it is essential that you bring the following to your assessment:
1) Email address for 2 x references (Please kindly note – 1 of the 2 references must have known you for longer than 3 years, we are happy to accept a character reference from a friend, but not a family member)
2) We require the following forms of ID to process your application
A) 1 x passport
B) 1 x driving licence (a provisional licence is accepted)
C) 2 x utility bill or bank statement (this must be dated within the last 3 months)
If you don’t have these items please contact the team ASAP to discuss further.
Contacting the Volunteering Team
If you have any enquiries or would like to discuss anything further please do get in touch:
Volunteers offer a warm welcome and guide to visitors to the Kingston Hospital Maternity Post Natal Services. Volunteers also help to make sure that new mothers are provided with meals, snacks and drinks to encourage their health and wellbeing in the early post-natal days. Volunteers are also instrumental in conducting feedback with mothers and partners to learn from their experiences. This helps the Maternity Service to constantly improve its care.
Through a regular commitment, you be a valued member of the team including the health care professionals, service managers and administrative staff. You will gain insight into midwifery and support services in an environment surrounded by experts including Midwives, Supervisor of Midwives and Practice Development Midwives.
The training for Maternity Volunteers will provide a broad knowledge birth choices and careers in maternity services. You will also better understand why women and families choose Kingston Hospital Maternity Service as their provider of choice to have their babies with and how to learn from patient feedback and ensure this is heard.
What will I be doing:
Meet and Greet relatives and visitors to the Maternity Unit at the entrance to the Ward or department
Ensure they are fully acknowledged and security checked by the Reception Staff or Midwives Station
Meet and greet women booked in for a planned C-Section to provide a friendly face and reassurance as you guide them to their room or bay.
Encourage women to eat and drink well in the post-natal period, providing meals and snacks over the lunchtime period.
Conducting the Friends & Family Test when women are discharged to gather feedback about their experiences and suggestions for improvements.
What we are looking for:
Caring and reliable.
Ability to communicate well.
Ability to support volunteers.
Take the initiative and ensure the team are aware of any difficulties the volunteers maybe encountering.
Strong personal boundaries and confident to sign-post volunteers.
Engage in training and supervision as appropriate to carry out the role.
Essential requirement / commitment:
Over 18 years of age
Relevant DBS check
Commitment of at least 1 shift / 3 hours per week for a minimum of 6 months
Live, work or study within a 5 mile radius of Kingston Hospital
Before you get started with your volunteering role, you will be invited to attend the Volunteer Induction day. This will give you a full insight into the basic things that you need to know before you start your volunteering journey at the trust. This training is mandatory.
Participation in the training relevant to your role and confidential discussion of any reasonable adjustments required to meet your needs.
To live our values through your volunteering role at Kingston Hospital:
How will I be supported and what will I gain from this opportunity
Join an enthusiastic volunteering team of people who want to make a difference, just like you.
Learn new skills and develop existing skills.
A buddy to support you through your initial induction.
It can contribute to your personal development and confidence.
You will be making an important contribution to your local community throughout your volunteering journey at the hospital.
Invitation to 2 x annual awards to celebrate the support our volunteers give. An opportunity to meet other volunteers at the trust.
Annual refresher training.
A reference to support applications – please kindly note that this is only provided after our minimum commitment has been met.
This role is for me, what next?
All our volunteering opportunities are opened 5 times a year. Please go to: Kingston Hospital website working for us volunteering (Please note the volunteering tab will only be available when our roles are live)
You will be invited to complete an online application via TRAC (online recruitment tool)
Should your application be successful we will offer you an interview, it is essential that you bring the following to your interview:
1) Email address for 2 x references (Please kindly note – 1 of the 2 references must have known you for longer than 3 year, we are happy to accept a character reference from a friend, but not a family member)
2) We require the following forms of ID to process your application
A) 1 x passport
B) 1 x driving licence (a provisional licence is accepted)
C) 2 x utility bill or bank statement (this must be dated within the last 3 months)
If you don’t have these items please contact the team asap to discuss further.
Contacting the Volunteering Team
If you have any enquiries or would like to discuss anything further please do get in touch:
Kingston Hospital is a welcoming and dog-friendly hospital that greatly values the interactions between visiting Pets as Therapy (PAT) dogs with patients, their family and friends, and with staff.
Pets as Therapy is a national charity founded in 1983. The aim is to enhance health and wellbeing in the community through the visits of trusted volunteers with their behaviourally assessed animals.
It’s well-known (and scientifically prove) that interaction with a gentle, friendly pet has significant benefits in relation to both physical and mental health and a visit by PAT dogs of all sizes brings a smile to many faces. Volunteers and their PAT accredited dogs can visit almost all parts of the hospital including wards and clinics as well as staff areas. Visits may occur either with the direct involvement of staff or simply by introducing yourself and your dog to individuals.
Accreditation:
PAT dog Volunteers need to first have their dogs assessed and accredited by Pets as Therapy before applying to the Hospital to visit as a Volunteer (see https://petsastherapy.org/join-us/join-pat-dog/ for more details). Dogs will need to be at least nine months old and the owners must have had them for at least six months. A modest annual fee is paid to the charity which amongst other things provides insurance cover for PAT visiting purposes. Pets as Therapy also sell “livery” for both the dog and owner.
What we are looking for?
Can demonstrate a sense of maturity as well as compassion for others
Good communication and listening skills with a friendly attitude
An ability to use your own initiative
Respect boundaries and confidentiality at all times
Essential requirement / commitment:
Over 18 years of age
All Volunteer Visitors will require a DBS check
Commitment of at least 1 shift / 3 hours per week for a minimum of 6 months
Live, work or study within a 5 mile radius of Kingston Hospital
Before you get started with your volunteering role, you will be invited to attend the Volunteer Induction day. This will give you a full insight into the basic things that you need to know before you start your volunteering journey at the trust. This training is mandatory.
Participation in the training relevant to your role and confidential discussion of any reasonable adjustments required to meet your needs.
To live our values through your volunteering role at Kingston Hospital:
How will I be supported and what will I gain from this opportunity?
Join an enthusiastic volunteering team of people who want to make a difference, just like you.
Learn new skills and develop existing skills.
A buddy to support you through your initial induction.
It can contribute to your personal development and confidence.
You will be making an important contribution to your local community throughout your volunteering journey at the hospital.
Invitation to 2 x annual awards to celebrate the support our volunteers give. An opportunity to meet other volunteers at the trust.
Annual refresher training.
A reference to support applications – please kindly note that this is only provided after our minimum commitment has been met.
This role is for me, what next?
All our volunteering opportunity are opened 5 times a year. Please go to: Kingston Hospital website working for us volunteering (Please note the volunteering tab will only be available when our roles are live)
You will be invited to complete an online application via TRAC (online recruitment tool)
Should your application be successful we will offer you an interview, it is essential that you bring the following to your interview:
1) Email address for 2 x references (Please kindly note – 1 of the 2 references must have known you for longer than 3 year, we are happy to accept a character reference from a friend, but not a family member)
2) We require the following 3 forms of ID to process your application
A) 1 x passport
B) 1 x driving licence (a provisional licence is accepted)
C) 2 x utility bill or bank statement (this must be dated within the last 3 months)
If you don’t have these items please contact the team asap to discuss further.
Contacting the Volunteering Team
If you have any enquiries or would like to discuss anything further please do get in touch:
As a Patient Experience Volunteer you will be supporting patients, carers and family members to give feedback and take part in other activities that help us to improve the services and care we provide. Volunteers help patients to complete the Friends & Family Test, find out about their accessible information needs, guide patients towards information resources and help us to find our patients views on improvements. There is also the chance for volunteers to get involved in our quality improvement projects. The information volunteers gather contributes to the quality of services and care at Kingston Hospital.
What’s involved?
As a Patient Experience Volunteer you will be helping in the following ways:
Enabling patients, carers and family members to complete the Friends & Family Test with on the day of discharge on hospital wards
Sign-posting patients, carers and other users of the hospital to additional ways to give their feedback, e.g. Patient Advice & Liaison Service
Help identify patients that have accessible information need (e.g. hearing aids, large print information) and inform staff about this.
Helping with patient surveys (supporting patients to complete the survey)
Helping to gather data for quality improvement initiatives, through interviews, mystery shopping and observing how services operate.
Supporting patient engagement events
Providing admin support, for example inputting data from FFT or improvement initiatives or patient surveys
Participating in supervision sessions to discuss common themes and priorities that you have identified through conducting patient experience research.
Essential requirement/ commitment
Over 16 years of age
All Volunteer Visitors will require a DBS check
Commitment of at least 1 shift / 3 hours per week for a minimum of 6 months
Live, work or study within a 5 mile radius of Kingston Hospital
Before you get started with your volunteering role, you will be invited to attend the Volunteer Induction day. This will give you a full insight into the basic things that you need to know before you start your volunteering journey at the trust. You will also need to attend a 2 -3 hour patient experience training session.
This training is mandatory.
Participation in the training relevant to your role and confidential discussion of any reasonable adjustments required to meet your needs.
To live our values through your volunteering role at Kingston Hospital:
How will I be supported and what will I gain from this opportunity?
Join an enthusiastic volunteering team of people who want to make a difference, just like you.
Learn new skills and develop existing skills.
A buddy to support you through your initial induction.
It can contribute to your personal development and confidence.
You will be making an important contribution to your local community throughout your volunteering journey at the hospital.
Invitation to 2 x annual awards to celebrate the support our volunteers give. An opportunity to meet other volunteers at the trust.
Annual refresher training.
A reference to support applications – please kindly note that this is only provided after our minimum commitment has been met.
Contacting the Volunteering Team
If you have any enquiries or would like to discuss anything further please do get in touch:
It’s really important that the information we give to patients and carers at Kingston Hospital is easy to understand and tells people the most important things that they need to know. We are now recruiting Patient Information Reviewers to help us with this task.
What’s involved?
As a Patient Information Volunteer you will be helping in the following ways:
You will need to review information produced by the hospital and provide feedback at meetings of the Patient Information Readers Panel.
Providing admin support for the readers panel group
What Skills, Knowledge and Experience are helpful in this role?
No previous experience is necessary. The role requires somebody with good communication and organisational skills. We are looking for people who are enthusiastic, willing to commit to the role and provide a patient and carer perspective on the information we produce.
Essential requirement / commitment:
Over 16 years of age
All Volunteer Visitors will require a DBS check
The Panel meets every month for two hours and we’d expect you to attend at least three panel meetings a year. There are between four to six pieces of information to review at each panel meeting which we will send you a week in advance. You will probably need to spend an hour reading though this information before the meeting We’ll give you guidance and training on what to look for.
Live, work or study within a 5 mile radius of Kingston Hospital
Before you get started with your volunteering role, you will be invited to attend the Volunteer Induction day. This will give you a full insight into the basic things that you need to know before you start your volunteering journey at the trust. This training is mandatory.
Participation in the training relevant to your role and confidential discussion of any reasonable adjustments required to meet your needs.
To live our values through your volunteering role at Kingston Hospital:
How will I be supported and what will I gain from this opportunity?
Join an enthusiastic volunteering team of people who want to make a difference, just like you.
Learn new skills and develop existing skills.
A buddy to support you through your initial induction.
It can contribute to your personal development and confidence.
You will be making an important contribution to your local community throughout your volunteering journey at the hospital.
Invitation to 2 x annual awards to celebrate the support our volunteers give. An opportunity to meet other volunteers at the trust.
Annual refresher training.
A reference to support applications – please kindly note that this is only provided after our minimum commitment has been met.
This role is for me, what next?
All our volunteering opportunity are opened 5 times a year. Please go to: Kingston Hospital website working for us volunteering (Please note the volunteering tab will only be available when our roles are live)
You will be invited to complete an online application via TRAC (online recruitment tool)
Should your application be successful we will offer you an interview, it is essential that you bring the following to your interview:
1) Email address for 2 x references (Please kindly note – 1 of the 2 references must have known you for longer than 3 year, we are happy to accept a character reference from a friend, but not a family member)
2) We require the following 3 forms of ID to process your application
A) 1 x passport
B) 1 x driving licence (a provisional licence is accepted)
C) 2 x utility bill or bank statement (this must be dated within the last 3 months)
If you don’t have these items please contact the team asap to discuss further.
Contacting the Volunteering Team
If you have any enquiries or would like to discuss anything further please do get in touch:
Paediatric Play Volunteers support our young patient’s aged 0-18 across the Paediatric wards and clinics by offering craft and play activities and story-telling in waiting areas and inpatient wards and paediatric A&E. This role is best suited to volunteer’s who are enthusiastic, creative, patient and sensitive to the difficulties faced by children in hospital for any length of time. Based in the inpatient play areas and other paediatric areas across the Hospital, volunteers use a variety of toys, books, craft materials and their own creative ideas to engage young people through play to support them whilst they wait to be seen by a Nurse or Doctor. Activities can be done at bedside with children and in small groups in the well-stocked play rooms.
Vacancies: Monday – Friday only
What will I be doing:
Taking a creative approach to engaging young people whilst they wait to be seen by a health care professional.
Designing simple single-use games and activities for young people to do, e.g. drama and interactive games
Reading and telling stories
Encourage family member to respond to the Friends & Family Test
Provide basic information about the Royal Eye Unit and paediatrics clinics, and what people can expect
Providing information about a range of facilities, e.g. restaurants, baby change areas
Basic sanitising of toys using detergent wipes (provided) between each child who plays with them.
Understanding the Health & Safety of the play area and reporting any concerns immediately to a member of staff.
Taking an active and visible role to promote patient, visitor and volunteers’ Health & Safety, Infection Control, Child Protection and other key policies as relevant to this role.
What we are looking for:
Can demonstrate a sense of maturity as well as compassion for others
Good communication and listening skills with a friendly attitude
An ability to use your own initiative
A calm manner and ability to maintain personal boundaries
Respect confidentiality at all times
A creative approach to play, e.g. thinking of games with paper and pen
Active listening skills and a warm and empathic manner
Basic literacy (reading), story-telling skills are helpful, but not essential to this role
Essential requirement / commitment:
Over 18 years of age
All Volunteer Visitors will require a DBS check
Commitment of at least 1 shift / 3 hours per week for a minimum of 6 months
Live, work or study within a 5 mile radius of Kingston Hospital
Before you get started with your volunteering role, you will be invited to attend the Volunteer Induction day. This will give you a full insight into the basic things that you need to know before you start your volunteering journey at the trust. This training is mandatory.
Participation in the training relevant to your role and confidential discussion of any reasonable adjustments required to meet your needs.
To live our values through your volunteering role at Kingston Hospital:
How will I be supported and what will I gain from this opportunity?
Join an enthusiastic volunteering team of people who want to make a difference, just like you.
Learn new skills and develop existing skills.
A buddy to support you through your initial induction.
It can contribute to your personal development and confidence.
You will be making an important contribution to your local community throughout your volunteering journey at the hospital.
Invitation to 2 x annual awards to celebrate the support our volunteers give. An opportunity to meet other volunteers at the trust.
Annual refresher training.
A reference to support applications – please kindly note that this is only provided after our minimum commitment has been met.
This role is for me, what next?
All our volunteering opportunity are opened 5 times a year. Please go to: Kingston Hospital website working for us volunteering (Please note the volunteering tab will only be available when our roles are live)
You will be invited to complete an online application via TRAC (online recruitment tool)
Should your application be successful we will offer you an interview, it is essential that you bring the following to your interview:
1) Email address for 2 x references (Please kindly note – 1 of the 2 references must have known you for longer than 3 year, we are happy to accept a character reference from a friend, but not a family member)
2) We require the following 3 forms of ID to process your application
A) 1 x passport
B) 1 x driving licence (a provisional licence is accepted)
C) 2 x utility bill or bank statement (this must be dated within the last 3 months)
If you don’t have these items please contact the team asap to discuss further.
Contacting the Volunteering Team
If you have any enquiries or would like to discuss anything further please do get in touch:
The Royal Eye Unit can be one of the busiest areas of the hospital, with patients, visitors, staff and families all coming through this route. Many are looking for help finding their way to an appointment or clinic. The REU Clinic Support volunteers are often the first point of contact for patients and visitors when they arrive at the REU and are a friendly, welcoming face.
The main purpose of the role is to support patients attending the Royal Eye Unit who have been recently diagnosed with sight loss, and/or are receiving treatment. You’ll be offering a listening ear, providing non-medical information in a range of formats (printed, Braille, audio), guiding patients around the hospital when necessary, i.e. to get a drink or to another hospital department, help with gathering feedback with our Friends and Family Test. You’ll also be referring patients to the Eye Care Liaison Officer (ECLO) for non-medical/clinical support.
You may also be able to get involved in specific projects supporting the ECLO with various support groups.
REU Clinic Support volunteers are needed throughout the week (Mondays to Fridays). The shift times are times are from 10am until 1pm, and from 1pm until 4pm.
What we are looking for:
Can demonstrate a sense of maturity as well as compassion for others
Good communication and listening skills with a friendly attitude
An ability to use your own initiative
Respect boundaries and confidentiality at all times
Essential requirement / commitment:
Over 16 years of age
All Volunteer Visitors will require a DBS check
Commitment of at least 1 shift / 3 hours per week for a minimum of 6 months
Live, work or study within a 5 mile radius of Kingston Hospital
Before you get started with your volunteering role, you will be invited to attend the Volunteer Induction day. This will give you a full insight into the basic things that you need to know before you start your volunteering journey at the trust. This training is mandatory.
Participation in the training relevant to your role and confidential discussion of any reasonable adjustments required to meet your needs.
To live our values through your volunteering role at Kingston Hospital:
How will I be supported and what will I gain from this opportunity?
Join an enthusiastic volunteering team of people who want to make a difference, just like you.
Learn new skills and develop existing skills.
A buddy to support you through your initial induction.
It can contribute to your personal development and confidence.
You will be making an important contribution to your local community throughout your volunteering journey at the hospital.
Invitation to 2 x annual awards to celebrate the support our volunteers give. An opportunity to meet other volunteers at the trust.
Annual refresher training.
A reference to support applications – please kindly note that this is only provided after our minimum commitment has been met.
This role is for me, what next?
All our volunteering opportunity are opened 5 times a year. Please go to: Kingston Hospital website working for us volunteering (Please note the volunteering tab will only be available when our roles are live)
You will be invited to complete an online application via TRAC (online recruitment tool)
Should your application be successful we will offer you an interview, it is essential that you bring the following to your interview:
1) Email address for 2 x references (Please kindly note – 1 of the 2 references must have known you for longer than 3 year, we are happy to accept a character reference from a friend, but not a family member)
2) We require the following 3 forms of ID to process your application
A) 1 x passport
B) 1 x driving licence (a provisional licence is accepted)
C) 2 x utility bill or bank statement (this must be dated within the last 3 months)
If you don’t have these items please contact the team asap to discuss further.
Contacting the Volunteering Team
If you have any enquiries or would like to discuss anything further please do get in touch:
Paediatric Play Volunteers support our young patients aged 0-18 attending outpatient appointments in The Royal Eye Unit by offering play activities and story-telling in waiting areas and the playroom. This role is best suited to volunteers who are enthusiastic, creative, patient and sensitive to the difficulties faced by children attending a hospital appointment. Volunteers use a variety of toys, books and their own creative ideas to engage young people through play to support them whilst they wait to be seen by a Nurse or Doctor. Activities can be done with children and in small groups in the play rooms.
Vacancies: Tuesday / Wednesday / Thursday only
What will I be doing:
Taking a creative approach to engaging young people whilst they wait to be seen by a health care professional.
Designing simple single-use games and activities for young people to do, e.g. drama and interactive games
Reading and telling stories
Encourage family member to respond to the Friends & Family Test
Provide basic information about the Royal Eye Unit and paediatrics clinics, and what people can expect
Providing information about a range of facilities, e.g. restaurants, baby change areas
Basic sanitising of toys using detergent wipes (provided) between each child who plays with them.
Understanding the Health & Safety of the play area and reporting any concerns immediately to a member of staff.
Taking an active and visible role to promote patient, visitor and volunteers’ Health & Safety, Infection Control, Child Protection and other key policies as relevant to this role.
What we are looking for:
Can demonstrate a sense of maturity as well as compassion for others
Good communication and listening skills with a friendly attitude
An ability to use your own initiative
A calm manner and ability to maintain personal boundaries
Respect confidentiality at all times
A creative approach to play, e.g. thinking of games with paper and pen
Active listening skills and a warm and empathic manner
Basic literacy (reading), story-telling skills are helpful, but not essential to this role
Essential requirement / commitment
Over 18 years of age
All Volunteer Visitors will require a DBS check
Commitment of at least 1 shift / 3 hours per week for a minimum of 6 months
Live, work or study within a 5 mile radius of Kingston Hospital
Before you get started with your volunteering role, you will be invited to attend the Volunteer Induction day. This will give you a full insight into the basic things that you need to know before you start your volunteering journey at the trust. This training is mandatory.
Participation in the training relevant to your role and confidential discussion of any reasonable adjustments required to meet your needs.
To live our values through your volunteering role at Kingston Hospital:
How will I be supported and what will I gain from this opportunity?
Join an enthusiastic volunteering team of people who want to make a difference, just like you.
Learn new skills and develop existing skills.
A buddy to support you through your initial induction.
It can contribute to your personal development and confidence.
You will be making an important contribution to your local community throughout your volunteering journey at the hospital.
Invitation to 2 x annual awards to celebrate the support our volunteers give. An opportunity to meet other volunteers at the trust.
Annual refresher training.
A reference to support applications – please kindly note that this is only provided after our minimum commitment has been met.
This role is for me, what next?
All our volunteering opportunity are opened 5 times a year. Please go to: Kingston Hospital website working for us volunteering (Please note the volunteering tab will only be available when our roles are live)
You will be invited to complete an online application via TRAC (online recruitment tool)
Should your application be successful we will offer you an interview, it is essential that you bring the following to your interview:
1) Email address for 2 x references (Please kindly note – 1 of the 2 references must have known you for longer than 3 year, we are happy to accept a character reference from a friend, but not a family member)
2) We require the following 3 forms of ID to process your application
A) 1 x passport
B) 1 x driving licence (a provisional licence is accepted)
C) 2 x utility bill or bank statement (this must be dated within the last 3 months)
If you don’t have these items please contact the team asap to discuss further.
Contacting the Volunteering Team
If you have any enquiries or would like to discuss anything further please do get in touch:
As a volunteer visitor you will visit patients, who may be lonely, anxious or possibly don’t receive visits whilst a patient at the hospital. You will meet a wide range of patients as you move around the ward that you are assigned to. Often patients just want someone to talk to, but you might be involved in playing a game, reading a book with a patient or handing out puzzles and crosswords to help patients to pass the time. Each visit will be different and you will build a rapport with the patients you meet, exploring their personal interests.
What we are looking for:
Can demonstrate a sense of maturity as well as compassion for others
Good communication and listening skills with a friendly attitude
An ability to use your own initiative
Respect boundaries and confidentiality at all times
Essential requirement / commitment:
Over 16 years of age
All Volunteer Visitors will require a DBS check
Commitment of at least 1 shift / 3 hours per week for a minimum of 6 months
Live, work or study within a 5 mile radius of Kingston Hospital
Before you get started with your volunteering role, you will be invited to attend the Volunteer Induction day. This will give you a full insight into the basic things that you need to know before you start your volunteering journey at the trust. This training is mandatory.
Participation in the training relevant to your role and confidential discussion of any reasonable adjustments required to meet your needs.
To live our values through your volunteering role at Kingston Hospital:
How will I be supported and what will I gain from this opportunity?
Join an enthusiastic volunteering team of people who want to make a difference, just like you.
Learn new skills and develop existing skills.
A buddy to support you through your initial induction.
It can contribute to your personal development and confidence.
You will be making an important contribution to your local community throughout your volunteering journey at the hospital.
Invitation to 2 x annual awards to celebrate the support our volunteers give. An opportunity to meet other volunteers at the trust.
Annual refresher training.
A reference to support applications – please kindly note that this is only provided after our minimum commitment has been met.
This role is for me, what next?
All our volunteering opportunity are opened 5 times a year. Please go to: Kingston Hospital website working for us volunteering (Please note the volunteering tab will only be available when our roles are live)
You will be invited to complete an online application via TRAC (online recruitment tool)
Should your application be successful we will offer you an interview, it is essential that you bring the following to your interview:
1) Email address for 2 x references (Please kindly note – 1 of the 2 references must have known you for longer than 3 year, we are happy to accept a character reference from a friend, but not a family member)
2) We require the following 3 forms of ID to process your application
A) 1 x passport
B) 1 x driving licence (a provisional licence is accepted)
C) 2 x utility bill or bank statement (this must be dated within the last 3 months)
If you don’t have these items please contact the team asap to discuss further.
Contacting the Volunteering Team
If you have any enquiries or would like to discuss anything further please do get in touch:
Our refurbished Main Outpatients Department is one of the busiest in the area. Our volunteers located in the Main Outpatients entrance are the first point of contact for patients and visitors when they arrive at the hospital. They are a friendly, welcoming face and have a good knowledge of the hospital and the services offered. They help patients and visitors to navigate the different sections of MOPD, and improve visitor experience to the hospital.
Navigating can involve simple sign-posting to ensure that patients and visitors can get to wherever they need to go. More often, Navigators are guides, accompanying people across the hospital site, providing clear information about the hospital and the services available to patients. They also help to resolve customer service issues and sign-post people to other services, such as Patient Advice and Liaison Service. They also ask people about their experience at Kingston Hospital and capture feedback through the Friends & Family Test.
This role requires volunteers who are physically fit, and able to be standing or walking for most of the shift. The volunteers should thrive in a busy environment, enjoy meeting and interacting with all types of people, so good communication skills are essential. The role involves volunteering in an often very busy environment and you need to be aware of the principles of confidentiality in a hospital environment.
Navigators are needed in Main Outpatients Department from Monday to Friday. Our priority times are from 9am until 12 noon, and from 1pm until 4pm.
What will I be doing?
Welcoming patients and visitors to the Main Outpatients Department.
Encouraging patients to use self check-in kiosks and answer any questions about where their appointments are located and the ‘patient calling’ system.
Explaining the support and services available to patients, eg Boots, RVS café, toilets
Collecting patient feedback using the Friends & Family Test.
Listening to visitors concerns, and where appropriate, directing them to a member of staff or support service that can help.
Signposting patients and visitors to PALS or Complaints as appropriate.
What we are looking for:
Can demonstrate a sense of maturity as well as compassion for others
Good communication and listening skills with a friendly attitude
An ability to use your own initiative
Respect boundaries and confidentiality at all times
Essential requirement / commitment:
• Over 18 years of age • All Volunteer Visitors will require a DBS check • Commitment of at least 1 shift / 3 hours per week for a minimum of 6 months • Live, work or study within a 5 mile radius of Kingston Hospital • Before you get started with your volunteering role, you will be invited to attend the Volunteer Induction day. This will give you a full insight into the basic things that you need to know before you start your volunteering journey at the trust. This training is mandatory. • Participation in the training relevant to your role and confidential discussion of any reasonable adjustments required to meet your needs. • To live our values through your volunteering role at Kingston Hospital:
How will I be supported and what will I gain from this opportunity?
Join an enthusiastic volunteering team of people who want to make a difference, just like you.
Learn new skills and develop existing skills.
A buddy to support you through your initial induction.
It can contribute to your personal development and confidence.
You will be making an important contribution to your local community throughout your volunteering journey at the hospital.
Invitation to 2 x annual awards to celebrate the support our volunteers give. An opportunity to meet other volunteers at the trust.
Annual refresher training.
A reference to support applications – please kindly note that this is only provided after our minimum commitment has been met.
This role is for me, what next?
All our volunteering opportunity are opened 5 times a year. Please go to: Kingston Hospital website working for us volunteering (Please note the volunteering tab will only be available when our roles are live)
You will be invited to complete an online application via TRAC (online recruitment tool)
Should your application be successful we will offer you an interview, it is essential that you bring the following to your interview:
1) Email address for 2 x references (Please kindly note – 1 of the 2 references must have known you for longer than 3 year, we are happy to accept a character reference from a friend, but not a family member)
2) We require the following 3 forms of ID to process your application
A) 1 x passport
B) 1 x driving licence (a provisional licence is accepted)
C) 2 x utility bill or bank statement (this must be dated within the last 3 months)
If you don’t have these items please contact the team asap to discuss further.
Contacting the Volunteering Team
If you have any enquiries or would like to discuss anything further please do get in touch:
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