Older people’s charity Royal Voluntary Service (formerly WRVS) is to work alongside clinicians to provide company and comfort to patients who don’t have any friends or family with them. The volunteers take the time to listen, talk and support patients -- especially older people -- who find themselves in what can be a disorientating and frightening environment.
Seventy-eight year old Laura Franklin from Cambridge fell onto a wheelie bin in her front garden, which gave her a serious cut to the face. When she was brought to A&E she was relieved to find a volunteer on hand. “I think it’s a marvellous idea. It’s so nice to have company and to feel a bit supported.”
Her volunteer was Judith Nicholls, one of the first RVS members to get involved. “I was so excited about the new service and really wanted to take part. I have friends who’ve had to spend time in A&E and know how stressful it can be. I wanted to try to help make a difference for people like that.”
Senior Sister, Katrina Snelling said “I’ve seen the growing need for a volunteer service in ED and since this programme started in April, there’s been a real benefit. The most vulnerable people are offered companionship but can also benefit from something as simple and practical as a welcome cup of tea. I’m really looking forward to seeing the volunteer team expand.”
Giles Wright, is head of volunteering and voluntary services at CUH. He said “Our ambition in CUH Volunteering is for every older patient to be supported by volunteers from the front door to the time they are discharged. Volunteers bring a unique benefit to patients and colleagues. They are often able to spend longer with individuals, which enhances the quality care shown by our clinical teams. We are also proud of our long-established partnership with Royal Voluntary Service, which is enabling us to do more, to use their volunteers’ gift of time.”
The new voluntary service currently operates Monday to Thursday from 13:00-18:00 but will expand to help people seven days a week, as soon as enough volunteers are recruited and trained.
More volunteers are needed to join the scheme to help as many people as possible. To find out more about volunteering opportunities, contact: http://www.royalvoluntaryservice.org.uk/
Image: Laura Franklin and Judith Nicholls
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For further information, please contact: Louise.gosling@addenbrookes.nhs.uk tel: 01223 586 730
Communications Department, Addenbrooke's Hospital, Hills Road, Cambridge CB2 0QQ
Tel: 01223 274433 Email: press@addenbrookes.nhs.uk
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