Healthcare volunteering
Trying to find a way to help out and do something for others? Volunteering might be the answer for you. Healthcare volunteering has become very popular in recent years. With people looking for ways to contribute without having their time taken up by large commitments.
This article will take you through the basics of healthcare volunteer roles. As well as how it can benefit yourself, those who are receiving care, and those around you. The NHS and other health organisations need the help of selfless volunteers to keep providing health and care services.
The NHS alone has over 300 types of volunteering opportunities. For a rewarding and fulfilling experience, there are so many different types of roles to suit everyone.
Healthcare Volunteering Considerations
When looking for volunteer roles, one important thing to consider is what organisation you wish to volunteer for. For example, which local hospital or clinic you wish to support. What you can do and where you can travel to. It is also important to consider which skills you have to offer. There are roles that require little or no experience, meaning anyone can learn and get involved.
Furthermore, there are also roles that require specialist knowledge. However, this can be taught at an NHS hospital or clinic. Provided you have the right qualifications and experience. Some places can provide you with these skills, such as free programs, college courses or online classes.
Once you have made the decision of what type of role you wish to do, it’s time to start looking at healthcare volunteering options. Some hospitals and clinics in the UK recruit volunteers directly through their websites or social media pages. Make a shortlist of places you can realistically get to and feel you could make difference at.
Take each of these options and contact the facility. Take down notes of volunteer programmes, opportunities, availability, shift patterns and as much as you can.
Healthcare Volunteering Goals
You may have a specific goal or career path in mind, such as becoming a nurse or doctor. Try to look for volunteering opportunities in more specific fields. People volunteer for a variety of reasons, career advancement, experience, selflessness, having spare time and more.
You may simply want to help out, and feel good about playing your part. In this case, volunteer for a variety of different organisations and you can learn so much about society and communities.
The benefits of healthcare volunteering are clear; you can make a difference to those who need it most and help out your local health services at the same time.
More information
Here are some resources to find volunteering opportunities that will suit you. Take your time to research and find the perfect fit.
- https://www.healthcareers.nhs.uk/explore-roles/doctors/applying-medical-school/gaining-experience-medical-school/volunteering-opportunities
- https://www.medschools.ac.uk/studying-medicine/current-medical-students/student-volunteering
- https://www.royalvoluntaryservice.org.uk/volunteering/volunteering-in-hospitals/
- https://www.imperialcharity.org.uk/volunteering/i-want-to-volunteer/i-am-over-18-years-old/volunteer
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