Young person’s volunteering (16-19 years old)

We are pleased to able to offer a wide range of volunteer opportunities to those aged 16-18 years old.

All roles are available during the normal working day.  For those who are unavailable during this time, the ward volunteer role can be undertaken between 16:30 and 18:30.  If you are particularly interested in being a volunteer with Radio Addenbrooke’s, this role is available 7 days a week after completion of training.

These volunteering activities may count towards your Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Volunteering section, please check with your DofE Leader before applying.  We are able to accommodate candidates for the duration of all three levels.   Please contact us for further information:  01223 586616 or Cuh.volunteer@nhs.net

Volunteers  who are allocated to the wards, may help out with the meal service, providing assistance and encouragement for our frailer patients.  Ward volunteers engage with patients who are lonely, isolated or anxious with the opportunity to communicate. This can take the form of:

• A conversation
• An activity (such as a quiz or game)

These interactions are simple but can make a great difference to patients, to whom the day in hospital can seem long and dreary. A listening ear, a friendly smile and a kind word are sometimes the things that matter most.

If you have an interest in investigating a career in the NHS, you can gain valuable insight into life on the wards. This can help you to develop your communication skills and confidence as you spend more time as a volunteer. Volunteering in a hospital is also frequently seen as beneficial by Higher Education establishments.

• A Healthcare Careers Event including an opportunity to ask questions of senior leaders within CUH is held twice a year, in March and September.  Details of which you will be notified before the events.
• All volunteers are supported by Voluntary Services Department staff.
• At the end of your volunteering you will receive a certificate and a reference, provided sufficient hours have been completed.

Comments from Young Volunteers:

“There will be some aspects that will surprise you but you learn a lot and I feel it is a very valuable experience”

“It is very rewarding, you meet a great bunch of people volunteering.”

NB:  people under the age of 18 cannot spend more than a total of 40 hours per week in school/college, paid work and volunteering.

As a volunteer, the right to work within the UK is still needed and as part of our recruitment process and the relevant documents will be checked.  You need to give this consideration before applying.