Vacancies
Making a big difference
Every day, volunteers make a big difference to the lives of our patients, carers and colleagues across County Durham and Darlington.
Our volunteers generously donate their time, energy and enthusiasm in a wide variety of non-clinical activities to personalise and improve the experience of our patients and their loved-ones. Volunteering complements the work of healthcare staff to provide the best experience possible. Whether it's meeting and greeting people in our hospitals, supporting on wards or within departments or raising money, the helping hands of volunteers reach out to all parts of hospital and community life.
More than 150 people are involved in a range of volunteering activities across our hospital and community sites, and we very much value the contribution they make. We're committed to increasing the recruitment of volunteers and in ensuring our volunteers feel valued.
Our volunteers:
- Complement the work of our staff within wards and department
- Support patients, relatives, carers and visitors, including welcoming and greeting people
- Help to promote a more friendly, personal and social atmosphere
- Spend time chatting with and listening to patients and their relatives
- Assist with meal times, help with patient surveys and within our hospital radio
- Choose to give their time freely for the benefit of others.
- Assist with volunteer drivers
Benefits of volunteering include:
- Helps you to become involved in the community
- Helps you to return to work after a break
- Helps you to build your confidence
- Helps you meet new people
Are you interested in a career in the NHS?
If so, speak to us about the Volunteer to Career Programme which identifies a pathway for volunteers to develop their careers in health and care.
Volunteers will receive first-hand experience of what it's like working within the NHS which will hopefully encourage them to apply for jobs within our Trust.
What age do I need to be before I can apply to be a volunteer?
If you are aged 16 or over you are eligible to apply to become a volunteer.
Why do I need to complete an application form?
It is a requirement of the NHS that you complete an application form in order for us to obtain your details and also to ensure that we match you with an appropriate volunteering role.
Why do I need a health check?
It is important for us to establish you are fit to undertake the role you are volunteering for and to identify if any modifications are required to assist you to undertake the role due to working in a health care environment.
Why do I require a Police Check (Criminal Record Bureau)?
A CRB check is required because as a volunteer you will be working with children or vulnerable adults.
If you are interested in becoming a volunteer, please complete the volunteer application form.
If you have any other queries, please contact the Patient Experience Team on Freephone: 0800 783 5774 or email: cddft.
