THE team at St John of God Midland Public and Private Hospitals have always been proud of their terrific volunteers, and is looking for a few more to join their volunteering team.

The hospital currently has about 65 volunteers who give generously of their time to greet and escort patients, their families and visitors as well as provide companionship and support.

Many of the volunteers have been with the hospital for many years and each person has different reasons for volunteering including meeting new people and making new friends, giving something back to the community, improving confidence, gaining new skills and improving mental and physical health and wellbeing.

St John of God Midland Public and Private Hospitals chief executive officer Paul Dyer said from the get-go, volunteers have been an integral part of the hospital community and are valued enormously.

“They help us ensure that we provide the best possible patient and visitor experience,” he said.

“At present, we need new volunteers for the Forget Me Not program in particular. Volunteers for this program form part of the care team of nurses and allied health staff in supporting people with dementia and or delirium, or those who are at risk of delirium in the hospital.

“The program uses trained volunteers to provide person-centred emotional support and practical assistance to vulnerable patients in hospital. Duties include sitting with patients, chatting one on one and supporting patients with activities they enjoy, such as reading, playing cards and so forth. It is a rewarding volunteer experience and I’d encourage people to apply.”

Those wishing to volunteer for the Forget Me Not program or for general volunteering at the hospital must be over 18 years of age, will be required to undergo a National Volunteer Police Check and may be required to undertake a Working with Children Check.

Any training, if required, is provided by the hospital. To enquire about volunteering, contact the hospital on (08) 9462 5409 or send an email to midland.volunteer@sjog.org.au