Bradford District Care NHS Foundation Trust is seeking volunteers from across the district to lend a helping hand and get involved in a range of roles to support patients at the Airedale Centre for Mental Health.

The volunteering roles include activities volunteers who work alongside occupational therapists, to support people who are receiving care to take part in activities such as crafts, singing, playing games and quizzes. The Trust is also looking for patient advice volunteers, this role involves talking to service users on the wards about their experience of their care, listening to their feedback or concerns and liaising with the relevant staff and departments to resolve any issues or share any feedback.

Javed Iqbal who is currently in the role of advice volunteer said: “Through volunteering I have taken part in training that I wouldn’t have had the chance to do. I am gaining experience working with a variety of staff and I really feel as though I am making a difference to patients whilst they are in hospital.”

Catherine Jowitt, Volunteer Lead at Bradford District Care NHS Foundation Trust, said: “Both roles are really exciting to get involved in. We are looking for people that are creative, good communicators and people confident in getting people involved in activities, and can give a few hours a week for this rewarding role.

People are often surprised at how much they get back when they volunteer.  All volunteers will receive an induction, which will take place in November, to make sure they are comfortable in their role. “

If you are interested in either of the roles please contact Clare Bancroft, Volunteer Coordinator at Bradford District Care NHS Foundation Trust on 01274 322662 or email volunteer@bdct.nhs.uk.