Maternity Volunteer (St Richard’s Hospital, Chichester)

Please note demand for this role is very high and priority will be given to those who are planning to study for a qualification in midwifery. Applicants must be aged 18 or over.

At St Richard’s Hospital we hope volunteering is a place for you to learn, connect, and make a difference. Why Volunteer at St Richard’s Hospital?

1. To Help Others
2. Develop your skills: If you are looking to boost your CV, volunteering can be a way to show that you are reliable and dedicated. If you are thinking about a future career in health and social care, volunteering at the hospital can help you to decide if it’s for you.
3. Satisfaction: Being a volunteer is good for you! Research shows volunteering can boost your physical and mental health. Volunteering is linked to lower rates of depression, stress, and hospitalisation too. Volunteers are physically active, getting out and having new experiences. As a volunteer at St Richard’s Hospital, you will connect with our network of committed volunteers and staff.

Duties for the Antenatal clinic may include the following:

• Assist with giving directions to members of the public. • Help setting up rooms for clinic and damp dusting of rooms. • Assist with taking specimens to the laboratory. • Calling women through to their appointment. • Assist with supporting patients attending the clinic • Assist with making drinks for patients who have had bad news and sitting with them. • Answer the telephone, field general enquiries when necessary. • Act as messenger for the department i.e. going to Print Room or Medical Records • Assist with selected clerical duties e.g. making up new folders, filing and making up sets of blood forms. Collecting notes from other area.

Duties for the Post-Natal Ward may include the following:

• Assist the housekeeper at mealtimes. • Tea trolley round. • Help with cleaning of vacant bed/cot spaces and making beds. • Assist at visiting times with meeting and greeting and monitoring secure access door. • Assisting parents to/from Neonatal Unit (NNU) to visit their babies. • Stocking up and cleaning of equipment. • Act as messenger for the ward i.e. going to Print Room, Labour ward, Medical Records, drop specimens off at the Pathology lab, pick up/collect items from Pharmacy. • Assist with selected clerical duties e.g. making up new folders and packs in Chichester Birth Centre (CBC). • Assisting with keeping bed spaces tidy and clean e.g. wiping of tables etc. • Provide emotional support, befriending and listening if required and act as a liaison between the patient and the nursing staff. • Assist with the stocking up of cupboards. • Assist with general cleaning and tidying of the ward, making sure corridors are kept clear of clutter.