Becoming a Stepping Hill Hospital Volunteer: How You Can Make a Difference

Volunteering at Stepping Hill Hospital is an incredibly rewarding experience and plays a crucial role in enhancing patient care. Volunteers at the hospital support the services provided by the dedicated trust staff, ultimately aiming to improve the experience of both patients and visitors.

Why Volunteer at Stepping Hill Hospital?

With over 200 volunteers currently assisting at Stepping Hill Hospital, these compassionate individuals are easily identifiable in their smart uniforms and are always ready to lend a hand. Volunteering offers a unique opportunity to give back to the local community while engaging in meaningful activities that directly benefit others.

Various Roles for Volunteers

Stepping Hill Hospital offers a range of volunteer roles designed to suit different interests and skill sets:

1. Retail Assistants: Help out in shops or cafes, providing essential services to patients, visitors, and staff.
2. Hospital Guides: Accompany patients and visitors to their destinations within the hospital, ensuring they feel comfortable and supported.
3. Ward Helpers: Assist with non-clinical duties in ward areas, contributing to a smoother operation.
4. Mealtime Helpers: Support patients during mealtimes, ensuring they receive proper nutrition.
5. Patient Experience Surveyors: Engage with patients to gather feedback about their hospital experience.

How to Get Involved

Anyone over the age of 17 can apply to become a Stepping Hill Hospital volunteer. A commitment of three hours per week for a minimum of 16 weeks is required. Here’s how to start:

1. Application Process: Submit a completed volunteer application form to the Voluntary Service Department at Stockport NHS Foundation Trust or via email.
2. Meet and Greet: Attend a meeting with the Voluntary Service Manager to discuss the most suitable role.
3. Health Screening: Participate in a health screening interview to ensure you are fit and well for your chosen role.

Ensuring Suitability

To ensure the best match for volunteers, two references from individuals who have known the applicant for at least one year are required. Where necessary, a Criminal Record Check will also be conducted. If accompanied by a support worker, both parties will need to complete the application process.

Courtesy Caller Volunteers

A new and exciting role at Stepping Hill Hospital is that of Courtesy Caller Volunteers. These individuals play an essential part in improving the patient experience by:

• Reminding patients of their upcoming appointments
• Supporting patients with minor queries
• Providing reassurance to those who may feel anxious about their hospital visit

Enthusiastic and empathetic individuals who can engage sensitively and provide practical information are sought for this role. Volunteers are needed between Monday and Friday, from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with flexible hours available.

Student Volunteer Placements

For students whose volunteer placement is a requirement for their college course or university application, specific student volunteer placements are offered. These roles provide valuable experience while contributing positively to patient care.

Volunteer Strategy

The hospital is proud to introduce its new three-year Volunteer Strategy aimed at developing updated policies and practices for volunteer services in line with current legislation and best practices. The goal is to recruit a diverse volunteer workforce that enriches the services offered, including collaborating with local colleges on innovative activities that enhance the patient experience.

Volunteer Charter

The Volunteer Charter underscores the hospital’s commitment to providing a safe and supportive environment for volunteers. While volunteers do not have an employment contract with the Trust, they receive high-quality support in their roles.

Quick Reference Information

For more details or any queries about volunteering at Stepping Hill Hospital:

• Voluntary Service Manager: Tel: 0161 419 5400
• Assistant Voluntary Service Manager: Tel: 0161 419 5008
• Opening times: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
• Location: Just off the Poplar Grove entrance on Stepping Hill Hospital

How to Apply

To apply for any of these volunteering opportunities:

1. Complete a Volunteer application form available on the hospital’s website or from the Voluntary Service Department.
2. Send the completed form either by mail to The Voluntary Service Department, Stockport NHS Foundation Trust, Poplar Grove, Stockport SK2 7JE or by email to voluntaryservices@stockport.nhs.uk.

For student volunteer placements, download and complete the specific student volunteer application form provided on the website.

Volunteering at Stepping Hill Hospital not only enriches volunteers’ lives but also significantly impacts those they help. Those ready to make a difference are encouraged to join this team of dedicated volunteers today!