From IT CEO to ED Volunteer: How Dean's personal journey transforms patient care at Kingston Hospital

At 66, Dean's volunteering journey began seven years ago, inspired by a deeply personal experience. His daughter, Phoebe, had successfully recovered from a major NHS-funded procedure to remove a brain tumour, igniting his desire to give back to the healthcare system.

Reflecting on that challenging period, Dean shared: "My daughter was just 18 then, the picture of health. Everything changed in an instant when she collapsed while walking home. Our world was turned completely upside down.

"The tumour measured 6cm, and she underwent surgery at St George's Hospital in Tooting. When it returned two years later, the medical team determined she needed proton therapy (a type of radiation therapy) in America. The NHS funded the entire treatment abroad, a gesture we'll never forget."

Dean's daughter is now on the recovery and receives regular monitoring to ensure her epilepsy episodes are under control. This life-altering experience sparked something in Dean – a burning desire to reciprocate the NHS's care. An article in The Guardian about the transformative power of volunteering provided the final push he needed.

His connection to the local community naturally drew him to Kingston Hospital. With enthusiasm, he explained: "My family has relied on this hospital numerous times over the years. It felt right to give back here.

"The hospital's excellent management and welcoming atmosphere make volunteering a joy. As I like to be running on my feet, I chose the Emergency Department, where the pace never slows."

In his role, Dean supports both patients and staff with various tasks – from brewing comforting cups of tea for everyone to ensuring linen cupboards remain well-stocked and clinics are prepared for incoming patients. But Dean's contribution extends beyond these duties. Drawing from his professional expertise, he collaborates with the ED and volunteering teams to streamline volunteer recruitment and onboarding processes.

He reflected: "The longer I volunteer, the more I'm embraced as part of the team. Each shift brings immense satisfaction as I witness the immediate impact of my contributions on both patients and staff.

"This role opens windows into remarkable lives. I'll never forget meeting two Holocaust survivors whose extraordinary stories left an indelible impression on me. Volunteering truly connects you with people from all walks of life."

When asked if he would encourage others to join the NHS as volunteers, Dean's eyes lit up with enthusiasm:

"Without a doubt! It's an incredibly rewarding journey. Beyond the satisfaction of helping others, you discover so much about yourself and the healthcare system. My time here has given me profound insights into the NHS's inner workings, highlighting both the remarkable dedication of the staff and the growing needs for our ageing population. It's truly been an eye-opening adventure.

"Mind you, healthcare volunteering isn't everyone's cup of tea. It demands significant time commitment and emotional resilience. You'll witness patients facing various challenges, so maintaining composure and showing genuine empathy is crucial."

When questioned about his thoughts on Helpforce's ‘Giving Back – Transforming Care’ campaign, Dean's face brightened:

"It's a brilliant initiative to spotlight healthcare volunteering. The wealth of skills and expertise that volunteers bring could make an extraordinary difference to the NHS. Investing in systems to facilitate volunteer participation is absolutely essential and worthwhile."

Inspired by tens and thousands of volunteers like Dean, who wish to volunteer for the NHS to give back, Helpforce has launched a three-year campaign 'Giving Back, Transforming Care' to inspire national conversations, foster deeper public engagement, and shift perceptions of healthcare volunteering from a 'nice to have' to a strategic imperative. Learn more about this ambitious campaign here.