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Become a #TeamCDDFT volunteer

Become a volunteer

Every day volunteers are making a big difference to the lives of patients, carers and staff across County Durham and Darlington.

We are always looking for dedicated and friendly people to volunteer and would welcome anyone interested in volunteering with County Durham and Darlington NHS Foundation Trust to come along to one of our upcoming drop in information sessions to find out more.

Whether meeting and greeting people in outpatients, raising money or supporting the staff on wards, the helping hands of volunteers reach out to all parts of hospital and community life.

We very much value the contribution that volunteers make to our services. They support many different areas of the Trust, including helping on reception areas, supporting nurses in clinics, carrying out administration work, and becoming involved with the Chaplaincy, Friends of the Hospital, Macmillan centres and community services.

Why do we have volunteers?

  • they complement the work of staff;
  • they support patients, relatives and visitors;
  • they help to promote a more friendly, personal and social atmosphere;
  • they have extra time to chat with and listen to patients and their relatives;
  • they choose to give their time freely for the benefit of others.

Our aims

  • ensure existing volunteers feel valued;
  • increase the recruitment of volunteers within the Trust;
  • support everyone within the Trust involved in volunteering.

What do volunteers do?

  • general support with wards and departments;
  • assisting with meal times;
  • hospital radio;
    welcoming (meeting and greeting);
  • assisting in the Macmillan information centre;
  • assisting within the Chaplaincy service;
  • assisting with patient surveys.

What are the benefits of volunteering?

  • it helps you to become involved in the community;
  • you can benefit people;
  • it can help you to return to work after a break;
  • it can help you build your confidence;
  • it helps you meet new people.

If you, a friend or a family member are interested in becoming a volunteer, please drop-in to one of our dedicated volunteer information sessions on:

  • Tuesday 24 January 2023 - boardroom at University Hospital of North Durham from 2pm - 6pm
  • Thursday 2 February 2023 - Memorial Hall boardroom at Darlington Memorial Hospital from 2pm - 6pm

To register your interest, please call: 0800 783 5774 or email: cddft.patientexperiencevolunteers@nhs.net

'In recent times, I have utilised admissions to Richardson for respite direct from my fracture clinic, even at weekends. I have never worked anywhere with this efficiency before - it is reassuring and invaluable for the patient.'

Patient, Lowson / Starling Wards, Richardson Hospital