Salma Abdi – Chelsea and Westminster Hospital NHS Foundation Trust

Salma joined the first-ever dedicated Youth Volunteer programme at the Trust in October 2018. Since then she has shown true dedication in developing herself as a volunteer and in giving time back to her local hospital. Salma started as a Ward Helper in elderly wards, moving to surgical wards and then supporting patients in the clinical imaging department. Most recently, Salma has taken part in a pilot project where she volunteers alongside a gynaecology consultant developing a new role to support patients through an ambulatory care pathway. Salma has supported women before and after their procedures with the aim of reducing pain post-procedure. She has brought a fresh perspective to the clinic and has suggested quality improvement ideas.

Salma is always first to sign up to extra events or roles. She undertook training to understand how to mentor new youth volunteers joining the programme in Summer 2019. She has shown great patience and empathy towards patients and peers alike. I am incredibly proud of what Salma has achieved.