Frequently Asked Questions
If you have an questions about volunteering across our hospital sites and community settings then you may find the answer below, otherwise please feel free to contact us.
What time commitment is required?
As it takes time and dedication to volunteer and make a difference, we require all volunteers to commit to at least one volunteering shift of at least 4 hours per week for at least 6 months.
Do you do work experience?
Volunteering is not the same as work experience. We only recruit for specific roles and ask for a minimum of 6 months commitment to the role.
Will I need to provide references and have a DBS check to volunteer?
All prospective volunteers will be asked to provide a professional reference (or reference from a schoolteacher if you are at school/college). Some roles will require a DBS (criminal record check) – we will take you through this process and provide you with more information after your interview stage.
Yes, we can pay mileage or travel expenses. Free onsite parking is also available to all volunteers (subject to an application for a parking permit)
Do I require any health checks to volunteer with patients?
Yes – you will be asked to complete a health self-declaration and a health assessment questionnaire. Evidence of vaccinations may also be required to work in specific areas such as our Acute Medical Unit. We take our volunteers' safety and well-being very seriously, which will help us ensure that you are being deployed safely.
What training will I receive?
After your recruitment checks have been completed, you will come on site and attend a training session that will last a couple of hours and include bed making, meal time assistance, and Infection Prevention.
You will gain considerable skills, but the most common are communication and interpersonal skills, confidence, resilience and experience a busy healthcare environment as part of a multidisciplinary team.
How long will it take from submitting my application to starting volunteering?
As volunteers are recruited through a similar procedure to employed staff, this can take 6-8 weeks. Naturally, this depends on applicants completing their paperwork promptly. It also depends on a DBS check being completed quickly. There could be delays caused by the DBS check or refer you for any further health checks before you start. We will always communicate this with you.
We will explain every step of the process to you, but please do not hesitate to ask if you have any questions!
Will you be able to provide me with a reference for future jobs?
We would be happy to provide you with a reference provided you have completed a minimum of 6 months volunteering with the Trust.
The welfare of patients, staff and volunteers is the Trust's top priority. The Trust has robust policies and processes in place for deploying volunteers safely during the COVID-19 pandemic. This includes supplying PPE, exercising high hand hygiene and social distancing, and providing appropriate training
If you are considering applying to become a volunteer, please ensure that you meet our entry requirements before applying:
- You must be 16 years of age or older
- You must have the right to work in the UK
- You must be able to meet the requirements of the role
- You will need to have an email address
If you have any further questions, please email us at rwh-tr.volunteering@nhs.net.
