Volunteer frequently asked questions

Who can apply to be a volunteer?

People aged 16 and over can apply to become a volunteer. There is no upper age limit. At the Trust we welcome people with disabilities and those from all cultures and backgrounds. All that we ask is that you are fit and well enough to undertake the volunteer role, you have a genuine interest in helping others, are reliable and have the commitment to volunteer. The Trust accepts volunteers from the age of 16 however placements on wards are restricted to those aged 17 and over.

What are the benefits of volunteering?

Many universities now require students to have gained experience through volunteering. Testimonials may be provided on request to those who have met the required attendance criteria, including a record of attendance and a description of the volunteer role that has been undertaken. This can then be used to support applications for higher education or job opportunities.

Will I need to provide references and have a DBS to Volunteer?

All prospective volunteers will be asked to provide a professional reference (or a reference from a school / college / university teacher if you are at school). Most roles will require a DBS (criminal record check) — we take you through this process and will provide more information after an informal chat.

Do I require health checks to volunteer?

Yes, you will be asked, by the Trust's Occupational Health Team to complete a health self-declaration / assessment survey. We take the safety and wellbeing of our volunteers seriously and this will help us to ensure you are being deployed safely.

How much time do I need to commit to volunteering?

As it takes time and dedication to volunteer and to make a difference, we require all volunteers to commit to a shift of at least two to four hours per week for a minimum of six months, during this time you will be working towards 50 hours of volunteering unless we specifically state otherwise.

What will I be doing?

Our volunteering roles are non-clinical and mostly patient-facing. Volunteers work in many areas across the Trust, here's just a few of them:

• Main reception - volunteers welcome patients and visitors to the hospital, help them with directions and any further information they may need.
• Wards -  volunteers provide a vital service supporting the staff on our wards. This may involve assisting with mealtimes, visiting patients and running errands for staff.
• Emergency Department - volunteers meet and greet patients, provide a vital service supporting the staff on our wards. This may involve assisting with mealtimes, visiting patients and running errands for staff.
• Dementia activity -  specific training is required to volunteer in this role.
• Chaplaincy - we have several volunteers who visit the wards and offer spiritual or pastoral support to patients. For more information regarding these volunteers / visitors, please contact Suzanne Quick, Lead Chaplain Tel: 01925 662146.

If someone has a particular area in which they wish to volunteer then every consideration will be given to place the volunteer where they have requested.

What skills or experience will I gain?

You will gain numerous skills, but the most common are communication and interpersonal skills, confidence, resilience and experience in a busy healthcare environment as part of a multidisciplinary team.

Will I get paid expenses?

We offer a free shuttle bus between the Warrington and Halton sites; we also provide free parking for all volunteers. You will need to give your vehicle registration to the Volunteer Team for this to be activated.