Volunteering has helped Suzanne develop confidence and self-esteem
12th November 2020
Submitted by Lindsay Rutherford-Hoe, North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust
Suzanne Chan has volunteered with the Trust for over a year on ward 33. During this time she has gone from volunteering one day per week to 3-4 times per week. Her confidence in the role has developed and she loves helping the staff on the ward and doing what she can to support patients. Suzanne has become part of the team making cups of tea, providing support during mealtimes and keeping patients company.
We have nominated Suzanne in this category as we feel that ‘going the extra mile’ is very apt in the fact that she offers her time for the benefit of our patients and staff, but also in doing this, Suzanne is achieving something for herself to help and support her wellbeing and mental health. Suzanne suffers with anxiety and volunteering for her has helped develop her confidence and self-esteem; by supporting others, it has helped bring focus to her everyday routine.
Suzanne is a humble volunteer who quietly gets on with the task in hand and would probably under normal circumstances shy away from the spotlight. We feel that Suzanne’s dedication and caring nature to improve patient experience and make a difference is something to be celebrated.
During the pandemic, Suzanne took a short break from volunteering, however her determination to re-start her volunteer role whilst also suffering with anxiety, has demonstrated her commitment to the trust and her passion to make a difference to our patients.
Suzanne told us: “There are simple things on the ward such as having a chat with a patient or making a cup of tea that can make a huge difference.
"After my mum passed away, my mental health suffered and I became very anxious and depressed. The experience of being a volunteer has helped improve my mental health and I feel even more able to be empathetic towards patients, following my own personal experiences; if they are worrying, anxious or simply lonely and in need of some company.
"I enjoy my time working with the staff who are so friendly and helpful. I think it's amazing to give something back to the community and it is very rewarding.”
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