Volunteering is when people give their time freely on a regular basis to support an organisation. Volunteers do not replace staff, but they complete tasks that just as essential yet time consuming. They can make a patient’s stay in hospital a little easier by spending time with them.

Volunteering at SASH

Our volunteers are a committed and caring group of people who give up a few hours of their time each week to come and offer their help to the staff and patients. We have volunteers of all ages from 16 years upwards – people from many walks of life and with varying experience, who volunteer for a variety of reasons. Some have retired from paid employment but want to remain active and useful members of the community; some have been patients in the hospital and want to give something back. Others want to spend some of their spare time helping others in a practical and caring way, and some volunteers find it useful to gain confidence before returning to a working environment.

Volunteers contribute an enormous amount to the life of the hospital and our patients, but equally important, they derive satisfaction and enjoyment from their voluntary role. The vast majority of our volunteers have been with SASH for many years, but whether they are long serving volunteers or new recruits, all are equally valued. Each has different skills or qualities to offer and, most importantly, they all have a desire to help others. Volunteers are invaluable members of the team wherever they are placed throughout the hospital.

 

For more information please see the clips below and to hear from the volunteers themselves

Copyright - Josh Cheema (Meraki)

  • Meeters and greeters for outpatients and the x ray department
  • East Entrance information desk cover
  • Admin support for various departments with scanning, data inputting
  • Supporting patients on the wards by helping out at mealtimes or providing a listening ear particularly to patients living with dementia
  • Supporting Staff Wellbeing by supporting staff social events and the information Trolley

Find out more about volunteering opportunities please email sash.volunteers@nhs.net

Find out more about volunteering with the Friends of East Surrey Hospital.

Radio Redhill broadcasts to the patients and staff of East Surrey Hospital, Redhill.

Below are some of our common questions about volunteering. If you have a question which hasn’t been answered then please contact us.

How can I become a volunteer?

If you would like to become a volunteer or need more information, please email sash.volunteering@nhs.net

How old do I have to be to volunteer?

Minimum age of 16 – no upward age limit.

How much time do I have to give?

We ask that you will volunteer with us for approximately two hours per week, for a minimum of six months. This is because during this time you will have actually made a difference to our hospital with your help.  If you are looking for a shorter-term opportunity to shadow professionals, please see the work experience page for more information. 

What skills and experience do I need?

This may depend on the role you wish to undertake but generally all we are looking for is someone who cares, is reliable and committed and wants to help our very busy staff which means our patients will also benefit.

Will I need to have an interview?

Once you have completed and returned your application form you will be contacted and asked to attend an informal interview at a mutually convenient date and time.

I am not a British Citizen, can I apply?

Yes, you can apply if you have a visa with the right to work in the UK.

Do you offer work experience opportunities?

Volunteering does not offer work experience opportunities however these are available at SASH. Please see the work experience page for more information. 

What are the benefits of volunteering?

  • Role specific training
  • Travel expenses within a 10 mile radius – bus fares, train fares, or 40p per mile
  • Free car parking
  • Develop your skills or experience
  • All volunteers are insured
  • References
  • Meet new people and make friends
  • Make a difference to staff and patients
  • Become part of a team