Ward Helper – Midlothian Community Hospital

Mireya Ferrer
Volunteering Feb 21, 2024 0

Ward Helper (Midlothian Community Hospital)

Midlothian Community Hospital provides 88 beds across several wards. These wards provide rehabilitation (over 60s), continuing care of frail elderly, palliative/end of life care, dementia care, and mental health care.

The role

Volunteers are needed to support the wards in the following ways: chat to patients to provide mental stimulation and reduce boredom; serve teas and coffees to patients; top up patients’ water jugs; distribute food to patients at mealtimes; support the cleaning up of dishes and cutlery; interact with patient visitors; help out with any ad-hoc tasks on the ward as directed by staff.

Volunteer support is appreciated at any time during the day, but particularly over breakfast, lunch, and dinner. These are busy times on the wards where volunteer support would be most valuable.

Person specific

We are looking for volunteers who are kind, compassionate, and empathetic. You must also have strong verbal communications skills and be able to connect with people easily. Being reliable and punctual is extremely important.

Minimum commitment

Volunteers must be ready to commit to 2 hours per week for a minimum of 6 months. If volunteers wish to stay longer than this, we would be very happy to have you stay on.

Training

The induction training is provided over Microsoft Teams and will involve attending two sessions lasting approximately 2 hours each. The training will cover communicating with patients, boundaries for volunteering, equality & diversity, infection control, fire safety, and self-care. Additional training will also be available during your time as a volunteer.

Expenses

Agreed out of pocket expenses which are incurred when carrying out this volunteer role (e.g., travel) will be reimbursed in line with the NHS Lothian volunteer expenses policy and signed off by the Voluntary Services Manager.

How to reach the hospital

Midlothain Community Hopsital, 70 Eskbank Rd, Bonnyrigg, Dalkeith EH22 3ND. The hospital is reachable by several Lothian/East Coast bus services. Free parking is also available on site.

How to apply

For further information, please contact Voluntary Services Manager: ross.lamb@nhslothian.scot.nhs.uk

Or call 07816 257 400.

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