What it’s like to volunteer
The best way to tell you what it s like to volunteer at NDHT is through the words of some of our volunteers themselves.
Connie - Volunteer Supervisor, Northern Devon Vaccination Clinic
Tell us a bit about yourself and whereabouts you volunteer
My name is Connie, I am in my 70 s and a retired grandmother of 10.
I started volunteering at the Northern Devon Vaccination Clinic in February 2021 just for a couple of weeks but am still there now!
Why did you want to volunteer?
I have lots of time on my hands now I m retired and wanted to do something useful for the fight against Covid. I felt my previous experience as a manager at the Heart Foundation would help me in a volunteer role.
What impact has volunteering had on you?
It got me out of the house, I've made lots of new friends, volunteers, and staff. I hope I have helped and supported them and the patients coming into the clinic, of whom many are extremely nervous. It gives me a real feeling of achievement.
What do you enjoy most about volunteering?
I definitely enjoy meeting new people and having a laugh whilst carrying out an important and supportive role within the vaccination clinic. As I live alone, the people I volunteer with and the staff feel like my family, I look forward to coming to the vaccination clinic.
What would you say to anyone thinking about volunteering at NDHT?
Have a go! See if it s for you we have fun but also work hard and achieve a lot!
George Hammett, Carpark Supervisor Northern Devon Vaccination Clinic
Tell us a bit about yourself and whereabouts you volunteer
I’m retired from the Theatre industry, and I started volunteering for just 2 weeks back in January 2021 and am still here now! I m a lifetime member at Barnstaple Rugby Club. During my career, I spent 10 years as a Butlins Red-Coat and I think this really helps me in my volunteer role. I’m good at reading people and their reactions, so can tell when they’re nervous or need particular assistance. I volunteer at the Northern Devon Vaccination Clinic at Barnstaple Leisure Centre.
Why did you want to volunteer?
To help people! I don t like being retired I m a very sociable person and like to always be doing something I also do a lot of fundraising and have met a lot of new people to help with this.
What impact has volunteering had on you?
It’s transformed my life! It s got me out of the house and given me a purpose again and lets me contribute to the vaccination effort. It s great for your mental health and wellbeing. A very positive experience.
What do you enjoy most about volunteering?
It’s definitely meeting people! I know hundreds of local people and, as they arrive as patients, it s reassuring to see a local friendly face it helps them relax, we can have a bit of a chat and make it a very positive experience.
What would you say to anyone thinking about volunteering at NDHT?
Please do give it a go! You ll enjoy it and enjoy working with a great team!
Pam Jewitt, Volunteer at North Devon District Hospital and Northern Devon Vaccination Clinic
Tell us a bit about yourself and whereabouts you volunteer
I’m retired and in my 70 s. I just love helping people and started volunteering at NDHT where I help in various wards and departments. It s been over 3 years ago now and I also volunteer at the Vaccination Clinic.
Why did you want to volunteer?
I have a lot of time on my hands and really enjoy helping people. I like to help them with any worries they may have about attending the hospital, clinic or for rehabilitation. Having a caring person can really help with mental health issues and anxiety.
What impact has volunteering had on you?
It makes me feel good. I enjoy being part of a team and if I wasn't helping, then a nurse or another staff member would have to do the role I can assist with it can free up their time. I enjoy it and it makes you feel younger, and of use again to be part of a team. It s great for your mental health and wellbeing!
What would you say to anyone thinking about volunteering at NDHT?
Come and have a go! It s very worthwhile and great if you re lonely and on your own. After a career as a nurse and a midwife, it s great to be able to give back to the NHS.