Volunteer Strategy launched on International Day of the Volunteer (5 December 2022)

NHS Golden Jubilee has launched an ambitious new strategy to provide more flexible opportunities and attract more diverse groups to volunteering.

Current roles will be reviewed and new roles developed to provide a range of options throughout the time of the strategy with the potential of extending beyond business hours and supporting young people to engage in volunteering in the NHS.

New opportunities will be developed for the Golden Jubilee University National Hospital Surgical Centre, opening in summer 2023, and volunteers will be offered free learning and development opportunities.

Marcella Boyle, Non-Executive Director and Chair of the Volunteer Forum, commented:

“As we celebrate our 20^th anniversary as part of the NHS Scotland family, it is right to look forward and shape what our volunteer service will look like in the years ahead.

“The principal aim of the volunteer is to enhance the patient experience, which is why our Volunteer Strategy sets out an ambitious plan to deliver a person-centred volunteer service that will thrive as our organisation continues to expand in the coming years.

“The Volunteer Strategy aims to be flexible and responsive to the growing and changing needs of NHS Golden Jubilee and our patients, support volunteers to move within and across services and to know that they are valued and appreciated.

“By expanding the days and times that people can volunteer, we will reduce barriers to participation and increase the number and diversity of our volunteers.

“This will ensure that our volunteers can continue to support our patients, their families and carers when using our services and ensure they feel valued as key members of Team Jubilee.”

NHS Golden Jubilee has been delivering care through collaboration for Scotland’s patients for 20 years and volunteers have provided a growing range of advisory and patient/family support services across the Golden Jubilee University National Hospital since 2004.

In partnership with our staff, Team Jubilee volunteers make a direct impact to the care we provide – supporting our patients, their families and carers to have a positive experience with the highest quality, safe, effective and person centred care.

Between December 2021 and October 2022, NHS Golden Jubilee volunteers supported more than 14,000 patients during 682 volunteering sessions in Sensory Care, Pastoral Care, Outpatient Support and as Eye Centre Welcome/Self Check-in Guides.

The Volunteer Strategy for 2023 to 2026 adopts the principles of the Scottish Government Framework for Volunteering and has been co-produced in collaboration and consultation with volunteers, staff and partner organisations.

Isobel Gill, a Pastoral Care Volunteer at NHS Golden Jubilee, said: “Becoming a volunteer has so many benefits both to you and the people you’re helping. It’s great for your mental health and wellbeing, builds confidence and self-esteem, as well as allowing you do to something that is important and worthwhile. Believe me, by helping others, you help yourself.

“I cannot recommend it more, volunteering is a wonderful thing to do, especially if you decide to volunteer at NHS Golden Jubilee. You would be supporting so many people that need your help, in so many different ways.

“Volunteering is for everyone, from all walks of life. Any age group can volunteer, from school age to retirement and there are many great opportunities available, which can allow you to gain amazing experience, and can even volunteer for just an hour or 2 each week.

“If you have some spare time, please give it a go. Try something new, and trust me, once you start you’re hooked.” 

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