Mayo General Hospital has launched a recruitment drive for a new volunteer service to assist and support members of the public when visiting the hospital. The hospital is now looking for volunteers to take part in the pilot project and would welcome volunteers from all sections of the community aged 18 years and over (there is no upper age limit ). Training and support will be provided to all volunteers.
The main role of the volunteer will be to provide a friendly welcome and reassuring first impression to all who enter the hospital and to assist and guide visitors and patients to the various wards, departments and clinics in the hospital. The volunteer services will be provided in the main reception area, out patient department, and other areas, as required.
The concept of a volunteer programme was first suggested and developed by the Mayo General Hospital Patient Forum, which was set up in 2008 in order to ensure that patients and members of the general public have a say in the quality of services provided at the hospital.
Anne MacDonnell, one of the members representing patients on the Mayo General Hospital Patient Forum, is very pleased that a volunteer service is being developed. She said: “People are often worried and at their most vulnerable when arriving at a hospital so a welcoming face and a helpful reassuring hand could make a big difference.”
Ann Marie Brown, a member of the volunteer service committee, added: “There are many benefits to becoming a volunteer, such as learning new skills, making new friends, experiencing a new work environment and making a positive difference.”
Charlie Meehan, manager, Mayo General Hospital, has welcomed the new service, saying: “The roll-out of the volunteer service is a way for the hospital to encompass community involvement in ensuring all patients receiving treatment in Mayo General Hospital receive their care in an integrated manner. It will also help to make the experience while in the hospital as pleasant as possible in what can be a worrying, overpowering, experience for some members of the public and patients.”
If you are interested in finding out more about the service, contact Karen Carroll, Human Resources Department, Mayo General Hospital, on 094 904 2334.
Closing date for receipt of expressions of interest is Friday, September 30.
