Heartbeat: LiA sheds light on impact of volunteers in our workplace

December 12, 2019

The volunteer team recently hosted their third Listening into Action (LiA) where colleagues were invited to participate and share their thoughts.

The session provided lots of opportunity for discussion around the improvement of the service. It also prompted debate about what more can be done to ensure that volunteers have a positive experience whilst giving their time to care.

The event shed light on the new roles the volunteer service is introducing as well as the progress that has been made within the service.

Colleagues found the event informative. They were happy to be given the opportunity to engage with other wards that have individuals volunteering within their departments. Amber Markham, Matron of Critical Care said: “It was exciting to learn how volunteers can be used around our organisation and what they can do to support patients and staff. We have some volunteers in the theatre liaison role in CCU. Everything that they do is so important as it can be a very stressful time for those with loved ones in surgery.”

The purpose of holding another LiA was to bring colleagues together to share success stories and, to listen to what challenges they face. It was also a good chance to discuss whether they are on track with deploying the right volunteers to support patients and staff.

The feedback was positive and everyone had the chance to pitch in their ideas. Patricia Hunt, Volunteer Service Manager told us: “It was great to have the volunteers LiA event last month and to have so many staff attend with a willingness to take part.”

“We had presentations from several colleagues, as well as our Director of Communications, Ruth Wilkin. Jane Fleetwood from Dudley Group of Hospitals provided insight into the successful bleep/ response volunteer role, which is something we are looking to roll out in January 2020.”

“We were pleased with the turnout and the input from colleagues during the afternoon and look forward to seeing this role come to fruition.”