Modbury GEM Ward (Geriatric Support) Volunteer - Northern Healthcare Association

A hospital stay can be particularly challenging for older people. Time away from home, illness, reduced mobility, and social isolation can affect both physical and emotional wellbeing.

Working alongside our healthcare team, you'll help create a positive, supportive environment that encourages independence and improves the hospital experience for patients and their families.

Your time can help someone regain more than their health—it can help restore their confidence. As a GEM Volunteer, you'll:

• Make a real difference in the lives of older people during their recovery.
• Help reduce loneliness and social isolation.
• Encourage patients to remain active, engaged, and independent.
• Support people living with dementia through meaningful activities and companionship.
• Build friendships with patients, volunteers, and hospital staff.
• Gain valuable experience in healthcare, aged care, and community services.
• Develop communication, leadership, and facilitation skills.
• Become part of a welcoming team committed to compassionate, person-centred care.

Every smile, conversation, and activity helps make someone's recovery journey a little brighter. No two days are the same, but every day is rewarding.

You may: 💙 Spend time chatting with patients, offering companionship and meaningful conversation. 🎨 Lead or assist with leisure activities including board games, crafts, puzzles, cards, hobby groups, café visits, music, gardening, or gentle walks around the hospital grounds. 🎉 Help celebrate birthdays, cultural events, and special occasions, bringing joy and connection to patients during their hospital stay. 🤝 Support patients who have limited visitors or longer hospital stays, helping them feel connected and valued. 👋 Welcome visitors and assist patients and families to find services and facilities throughout the hospital. 📝 Assist with patient experience surveys that help improve future healthcare services. 🌸 Help create a welcoming ward by arranging flowers, maintaining activity resources, restocking supplies, supporting the Lunch Club, and assisting with a range of non-clinical ward tasks. Every interaction helps create a more engaging and supportive environment where patients are encouraged to maintain their independence and wellbeing.

No healthcare experience is necessary—we'll provide all the training and support you need. We're looking for volunteers who are:

• Friendly, patient, and compassionate.
• Great listeners who enjoy connecting with people.
• Reliable and enthusiastic.
• Comfortable working independently and as part of a team.
• Respectful of privacy, dignity, and confidentiality.
• Passionate about supporting older members of our community.

An understanding of dementia or experience with older people is welcomed but not essential.

Choose from flexible daytime shifts:

• Morning: 8:00 am – 12:00 pm
• Afternoon: 12:00 pm – 4:00 pm

Regular weekly volunteering helps build meaningful relationships with patients and the ward team.

You'll receive comprehensive orientation, ongoing education, and support from experienced healthcare staff and the Northern Healthcare Volunteer team. We'll equip you with the knowledge and confidence to make a positive impact from your very first shift.

Recovery isn't just about medical treatment—it's about hope, encouragement, connection, and confidence. Whether you're leading a craft activity, enjoying a walk in the garden, celebrating a special occasion, or simply sharing a conversation, you'll help make each day a little brighter for someone working towards regaining their independence. Volunteer with our GEM Ward team and help older people recover with dignity, purpose, and the support of a caring community.

***Applicants must be aged 18 years or older.