1. How do I apply?
You can apply by visiting the ‘Getting Involved’ section of our website and downloading an application form from the volunteering page. Alternatively you can call in and pick up an application form from the voluntary service manager’s office opposite main reception.
2. What is the criterion for applying?
There are 3 criteria’s for volunteering; they are: you need to be 16 years of age or older, you are required to undergo an occupational health check, and an enhanced criminal records (CRB) check.
3. Will I be able to work with clinical staff and patients?
All voluntary work is undertaken on a non-clinical basis; volunteers carry out many duties for example making beds and feeding patients who have difficulty feeding themselves (training is provided). Volunteers work in conjunction with clinical staff however they are not permitted to shadow doctors.
4. Can I still be a volunteer if I can only do 2 hours a week?
We ask each volunteer to sign an agreement to carry out a minimum of 2 hours per week for a minimum of six months.
5. How long can I volunteer for each week?
As stated in question 4 we ask you carry out a minimum of 4 hours per week; however if you wish to do more please speak to the voluntary services department before hand.
6. I’d like to volunteer but I have a disability. Are there provisions for this?
We have provisions in place for volunteers with a disability which is dependant on the role applied for. We work closely with our occupational health department to find ways of giving everyone a chance to become a volunteer.
7. What do I wear for volunteering? (E.g. do I get a corporate identity?)
We try to supply a uniform for volunteers; if you prefer to wear you own clothes we do have standards that have to be followed they are as follows: No jeans allowed, short sleeved plain blouse or shirt and no jewellery (Wedding ring allowed) or watches to be worn while working in clinical areas. We also ask you to wear comfortable plain shoes.
8. Can I gain a qualification or award through volunteering?
Training is available to volunteers and we do have a Volunteer of the Season/Year award for volunteers (this only applies to those who have been volunteering for 3 month or more).
9. If I volunteer at West Mid, do I have more chance of gaining permanent employment at the hospital?
Volunteering is not a guaranteed path to full time employment; however it does help when filling out any application by saying you have volunteered with the Trust. We will provide a reference for those who have carried out the minimum six month agreement.
10. If I don’t like it, can I change duties?
It can take a few weeks for someone to get the best out of their volunteering duties; however if you are unhappy in your voluntary work speak the voluntary services department and we will endeavour to find you a new area to work in.
11. Are there rewards for long term service e.g. 5 years or more?
Aside from the Volunteer of the month/year award volunteers can be included within the long service awards.
12. Do I have the same rights as a paid employee?
We try to treat all volunteers the same as full time staff however some rights will be different to those of full time personnel.
13. Do I get any travel expenses / access to hospital transport?
All volunteers are entitled to get travel expenses reimbursed and you need to speak to the voluntary services department once you have been accepted as a volunteer. We also give each volunteer a book of vouchers which allows them to claim £3.00 towards their refreshments while working (redeemable at Rumbles Restaurant and the West Mid Café only).
14. Will I get any training for my role?
We offer training and further training if necessary for the role undertaken.
15. If I have a problem with my work or a colleague who do I see?
We would advise that you speak to the senior member of staff on duty within the area of work; and also to report any concerns to the voluntary services manager as soon as possible.
16. Can I volunteer in the hospital grounds e.g. be a gardener or in facilities e.g. in the kitchens?
We have very good relations with our partner company Ecovert fm who manage a range of support services on site e.g. cleaning, catering and gardening. We would be happy to speak to Ecovert fm on your behalf and ascertain if you can do volunteering with them in a role to suit.
17. Do I need a health check before I volunteer at the hospital?
As per question 2 all volunteers need to undergo a full health clearance with our occupational health team; and all volunteers & staff are required to supply full vaccinations details prior to being accepted on to our team. This is to protect both yourself, our patients and staff.
18. Is there an age limit for volunteering?
The minimum age limit for volunteering is 16yrs of age; there is no upper age limit however you do need to be fit for the intended role. Anyone wanting to volunteer in paediatrics, maternity and theatres the minimum age limit of 18yrs is in place.
19. Can I volunteer for the Hospital Radio?
Although we handle the recruitment of most of our volunteers there are a few roles where the department concerned recruits their own. Hospital Radio is one such department for further information please contact: Radio West Mid via their web site which is www.radiowestmiddlesex.org.uk or via email on studio@radiowestmiddlesex.org.uk .
20. Are there any volunteer social events?
We encourage our volunteers to join in the various social events organised by the Trust; we have an annual staff ball, quiz nights etc.
