Volunteer

Volunteering for us

Volunteers play an important role in our Trust by providing non-clinical support to our healthcare professionals.  Anyone over the age of 18 who has some spare time can apply. We recruit people from a wide range of backgrounds for a variety of rewarding opportunities.

Why volunteer?

• to support your local Mental Health NHS Trust
• to meet people and make new friends
• to gain experience of the NHS

How soon could I start?

The vetting procedure usually takes four to six weeks to complete after your initial interview* and will include clearance from the Criminal Records Bureau, health checks and appropriate references.

How much time can I give?

As much time as you can spare. However, we suggest that between half to 1 day per week is a good starting point, depending on the type of voluntary work you choose.

What type of voluntary work could I do?

A variety of roles including:-

• Volunteer Activity Support for
• Music
• Art
• Cooking
• Games
• Gardening
• Quiz night
• Youth Club helper
• Chaplaincy helper etc. etc.
• Volunteer HCA (non-clinical)
• Magazine Editor
• Dining Companions
• PAT Dog/Cat
• Befriending
• Admin and clerical work

Will I be out of pocket through volunteering?

No, we will reimburse a reasonable amount of travelling expenses and provide subsidised lunch if you volunteer for more than 4 hours and over the lunch period.
 
How long can I do voluntary work?

Obviously, we want you to stay with us as long as possible but a minimum of six months is desirable. When you have completed six months or more, we are normally happy to provide a reference for you for future college courses or employment, if required.

To Apply

If you would like to volunteer please send a copy of your CV along with a covering letter explaining your motivation for volunteering, what volunteer role you are interested in, including any preference of client group, how long you can volunteer for, including availability if possible, which hospital or site you would like to volunteer at and any other supporting information to volunteering@swlstg-tr.nhs.uk or post to Voluntary Services Dept, 1st Floor Building 7 Ent A, Springfield Hospital, 61 Glenburnie Road, Tooting, SW17 7DJ.

*It can take several weeks before having an interview depending on demand for voluntary opportunities.